Core StrategyAdopted Version - Rochford District · considered the results of previous consultation...

LDF

Core Strategy Adopted Version

Local Development Framework

Rochford District Council December 2011

www.rochford.gov.uk

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Rochford District Council – Local Development Framework Core Strategy

Foreword The Core Strategy Submission Document, with a potential adoption date of 2012, will not cover a 15 year plan period.

As such, the Council is committed to undertaking an early review of the Core Strategy to put in place a plan that covers at least 15 years, and complies with emerging national policy. The reasons for this situation are set out below.

The Council submitted the Core Strategy Submission Document to the Secretary of State for independent examination on 14 January 2010. Hearing sessions took place between 11 and 21 May 2010 to discuss the key matters and issues determined by the Inspector, and an additional hearing session on affordable housing took place on 7 September 2010. However, changes at the regional and national level, as well as developments in case law led to a delay in the examination process.

Following the Secretary of State’s announcement to withdraw Regional Spatial Strategies (RSS) on 6 July 2010, the Council proposed amendments to the Core Strategy Submission Document (called the Schedule of Changes). These amendments were based on the housing figures proposed for the District up to 2031 in the revised East of England Plan, which was submitted to the Government in March 2010. These revised figures were agreed at the regional level and supported by Sustainability Appraisal and Habitat Regulations Assessment. The Schedule of Changes to the Core Strategy Submission Document was consulted on between 18 October and 30 November 2010 and the hearing sessions for the Schedule of Changes took place on 1 and 2 February 2011. However, after several rulings, the Court of Appeal has now concluded that the Secretary of State’s intention to revoke RSS cannot be a material consideration, as held in Cala Homes (South) Ltd) v Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on 27 May 2011.

As the amendments to the Councils’ Core Strategy had been taken in light of the Government’s pronouncements, the above ruling rendered the Core Strategy out of sync with the legal position in relation to the status of the East of England Plan.

The decision was then taken, following advice from the examination Inspector, to revert back to the Core Strategy as originally submitted, albeit with minor amendments as requested by the Inspector following the original hearing sessions in May 2010. Such minor changes included alterations to correct anachronisms in the document resulting from the time lapse.

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Contents Page

1 Introduction ............................................................................................7 The Role of the Core Strategy................................................................7 Developing the Core Strategy ................................................................8 Sustainable Community Strategy and other key documents ..................9

2 Spatial Characteristics, Issues and Opportunities ................................26 Introduction ..........................................................................................26 Environment .........................................................................................26 Population and society .........................................................................28 Housing ................................................................................................29 Economy ..............................................................................................31 Transport..............................................................................................32 Settlements ..........................................................................................33

3 Vision ...................................................................................................36 The Vision for Rochford District............................................................36

4 Housing ................................................................................................41 Vision ...................................................................................................41 Objectives ............................................................................................41 Introduction ..........................................................................................42 The efficient use of land for housing ....................................................44 Extensions to residential envelopes and phasing.................................45 Extension to residential envelopes post-2021 ......................................47 Affordable Housing...............................................................................49 Dwelling Types.....................................................................................50 Lifetime Homes ....................................................................................51 Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation...................................................52 Appendix H1.........................................................................................54 Appendix H2.........................................................................................58

5 Character of Place ...............................................................................61 Vision ...................................................................................................61 Objectives ............................................................................................61 Introduction ..........................................................................................62 Design ..................................................................................................62 Listed Buildings, Scheduled Monuments and Conservation Areas ......63

Listed Buildings .........................................................................63 Scheduled Monuments..............................................................63 Conservation Areas ...................................................................64

Local Lists ............................................................................................65

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6 The Green Belt .....................................................................................66 Vision ...................................................................................................66 Objectives ............................................................................................67 Introduction ..........................................................................................68 Protection of the Green Belt .................................................................68 Rural Diversification and Recreational Uses ........................................70

7 Upper Roach Valley and Wallasea Island ............................................72 Vision ...................................................................................................72 Objectives ............................................................................................72 Upper Roach Valley .............................................................................73 Wallasea Island....................................................................................74

8 Environmental Issues ...........................................................................75 Vision ...................................................................................................75 Objectives ............................................................................................76 Introduction ..........................................................................................77 Protection and enhancement of the natural landscape and habitats.................................................................................................77

Local Wildlife Sites (LoWSs)......................................................77 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) ................................77 Crouch and Roach.....................................................................78 Special Protection Areas (SPAs) ...............................................79 Special Areas of Conservation (SAC)........................................79 Ramsar Sites (Wetlands of International Importance) ...............79 Historical and Archaeological Sites ...........................................79

Coastal Protection Belt.........................................................................80 Flood Risk ............................................................................................81 Air Quality Management Areas ............................................................83 Renewable Energy...............................................................................84 Code for Sustainable Homes/BREEAM ...............................................86 Contaminated Land..............................................................................87

9 Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism ..................................89 Vision ...................................................................................................89 Objectives ............................................................................................90 Introduction ..........................................................................................91 Planning Obligations and Standard Charges .......................................91 Education .............................................................................................92 Healthcare............................................................................................94 Open Space .........................................................................................95 Community Facilities ............................................................................96

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Play Space ...........................................................................................97 Youth Facilities.....................................................................................98 Leisure Facilities ..................................................................................99 Playing Pitches.....................................................................................99 Tourism ..............................................................................................101 Appendix CLT1 ..................................................................................102

10 Transport............................................................................................104 Vision .................................................................................................104 Objectives ..........................................................................................105 Introduction ........................................................................................106 Highways............................................................................................106 Public Transport .................................................................................108 South Essex Rapid Transit (SERT) ....................................................109 Travel Plans .......................................................................................110 Cycling and Walking...........................................................................110 Greenways .........................................................................................111 Parking Standards..............................................................................112

11 Economic Development .....................................................................114 Vision .................................................................................................114 Objectives ..........................................................................................115 Introduction ........................................................................................116 Employment Growth...........................................................................117 London Southend Airport and Environs..............................................120 Existing Employment Land.................................................................121 Future Employment Allocations..........................................................124

12 Retail and Town Centres....................................................................128 Vision .................................................................................................128 Objectives ..........................................................................................128 Retail ..................................................................................................129

Village and Neighbourhood Shops ..........................................130 Town Centres.....................................................................................131

Rayleigh Town Centre .............................................................132 Rochford Town Centre ............................................................133 Hockley Town Centre ..............................................................135

13 Implementation, Delivery and Monitoring ...........................................136 Key Diagram .................................................................................................173

Appendix 1 – Replacement Local Plan policies to be superseded by Core Strategy ................................................................................174

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1 Introduction

The Role of the Core Strategy

1.1 Rochford’s Core Strategy is the main, overarching document of the Rochford District Local Development Framework – a collection of documents that will determine how the District develops in the future. It sets out the overall strategy for the District until 2025.

1.2 The Core Strategy explains how the Council will deliver the spatial aspects of the vision set out in the Sustainable Community Strategy and the Council’s Corporate Plan, as well as how regional and national policies, including those contained within the East of England Plan, will be applied locally.

1.3 The Core Strategy is also intrinsically linked with the Council’s Corporate Plan and vision.

1.4 The Core Strategy does not allocate land, or specify the boundaries of development sites, nor does it include development management policies. These issues will be addressed through other Development Plan Documents (DPDs) which must conform to the policies in the Core Strategy. Full details can be found in the Council’s Local Development Scheme (LDS).

1.5 The Core Strategy approach must be sound and as such it is necessary for the policies to be underpinned by a comprehensive evidence base and subject to an external sustainability appraisal – a process whereby the economic, environmental and social consequences of policies are assessed. It is also important that the Core Strategy reflects the views of local communities and the Council have carefully considered the results of previous consultation exercises in drawing up this document.

1.6 The Core Strategy comprises:

1. Spatial Characteristics, Issues and Opportunities – A summary of the physical and social characteristics of the District of relevance to its future planning, alongside the main challenges and opportunities.

2. Vision – The Council’s vision for the development of the District.

3. Strategies, Activities and Actions – What the Council propose to do to address any identified problems, challenges and opportunities that will deliver the Council’s vision.

The strategies, activities and actions are broken down into the following sub-sections:

• Housing

• Character of Place

• Green Belt

• Upper Roach Valley and Wallasea Island

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• Environmental Issues

• Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism

• Transport

• Economic Development

• Retail and Town Centres

4. Implementation, Delivery and Monitoring – How the Council will implement the strategies, activities and actions, mitigate risks to these and measure success.

5. Key Diagram – Visual representation of the Council’s core policies. The Key Diagram is not a Proposals Map and does not allocate land. Where policies relate to a specific element of the Key Diagram, this is indicated by the following symbol:

Developing the Core Strategy

1.7 The Core Strategy has been prepared in a number of stages, each one subject to appraisal and public participation. Each stage was developed having regard to the results of community involvement and sustainability appraisal of the previous stage, as well as to new evidence and changes to national or regional policy.

1.8 In September 2006 the Council published its Core Strategy Issues and Options document. This was followed by the publication of the Core Strategy Preferred Options in May 2007. Following the results of consultation on the Preferred Options document, the Council resolved to prepare a revised Core Strategy Preferred Options. The Core Strategy Revised Preferred Options was published in October 2008. The Core Strategy Submission Document provided the final opportunity for consultation and appraisal prior to public examination in 2010.

Sustainability Appraisal

1.9 As the Core Strategy has developed, each stage has been subject to sustainability appraisal (an appraisal of the economic, social and environmental effects of the plan/options) to help inform the decision making process.

1.10 The results of the Sustainability Appraisals, including non-technical summaries, for each stage of the Core Strategy are available as separate documents.

Community Involvement

1.11 Community involvement is an essential part of the plan-making process. There has been ongoing community involvement in the preparation of Rochford’s Core Strategy and in particular at three key stages: Core Strategy Issues and Options; Core Strategy Preferred Options; and Core Strategy Revised Preferred Options.

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Rochford District Council – Local D

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evelopment Framework Core Strategy

9

1.12 Consultation on the Core Strategy has been carried out in accordance with the Council’s adopted Statement of Community Involvement.

1.13 In addition to community involvement on proposed policies within the Core Strategy, consultation has also been undertaken in relation to aspects of the evidence base, particularly in respect of the deliverability and viability of residential development locations.

1.14 Details of community involvement exercises in respect of the preparation of the Core Strategy, and the results, are available as separate documents.

Sustainable Community Strategy and other key documents

1.15 A number of other strategies and plans have had to be taken into consideration in the development of Rochford’s Core Strategy. Such documents, together with an explanation as to how they have influenced the Core Strategy and/or how the Core Strategy will aid the delivery of their objectives are listed below.

Sustainable Community Strategy

1.16 The Sustainable Community Strategy is the long-term vision for the District and sets out the priorities for improvement intended to deliver the vision. It is developed by the Local Strategic Partnership – a partnership of local public, private and voluntary sector organisations who play a key part in the provision of services within the District.

1.17 The Sustainable Community Strategy informs the Core Strategy and acts as an umbrella for all other strategies devised for the area.

1.18 The Sustainable Community Strategy and Rochford’s Core Strategy are closely linked sharing the same objectives and evidence base.

1.19 The Sustainable Community Strategy identifies seven key priorities:

• Supporting the Ageing Population

• Fostering Greater Community Cohesion

• Strengthening the Third Sector (voluntary sector)

• Increasing Accessibility to Services

• Keeping Rochford Safe

• Encouraging Economic Development: Skills, Employment and Enterprise

• Promoting a Greener District

1.20 The Core Strategy has a role to play in delivering all of these as set out in the table below.


Sustainable Community

Strategy Priority Objective Role of Core Strategy in Achieving Objective Key Section/Policies of Core Strategy

Supporting the Ageing Population

To support the needs of the ageing population through enabling them to live independently in their own homes for longer and providing accessible services available by a range of transport methods

It is important to ensure that as people get older, and life expectancies increase, they can live independently for longer, for example through good housing design that meets the Lifetime Homes Standard.

The Core Strategy also seeks to ensure that high quality services are available in locations accessible to all members of the community by a range of transport methods, particularly through policies in Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism, Retail and Town Centres and Transport chapters.

• Lifetime Homes/Policy H6 • Healthcare/Policy CLT4 • Community Facilities/Policy CLT6

Leisure Facilities/Policy CLT9 •

Public Transport/Policy T3 •

Travel Plans/Policy T5 •

Cycling and Walking/•

• Retail Policy T6

Retail in town centres/Policy RTC1

•

•

• Sequential approach to retail development/Policy RTC2 Village and Neighbourhood Shops/Policy RTC3

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Fostering Greater Community Cohesion

To make Rochford District a place where residents have a sense of belonging in their communities. To enable residents to have the opportunity to participate in civic life and to reduce all inequalities within our communities.

The sense of community is vital for eliminating social exclusion and encouraging cohesion. The Core Strategy seeks to ensure that sense of community and identity is retained in existing residential areas, and that new residential developments are such that they will foster a sense of community.

The Core Strategy also seeks to ensure that the needs of all the community are met, including through providing additional social infrastructure to meet the needs of future and existing communities.

The Core Strategy seeks to ensure equal opportunities within new developments through providing a mix of housing that meet a variety of needs.

• Affordable Housing/Policy H4 • Dwelling Types/Policy H5 • Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation/

Policy H7 Design/Policy CP1 •

The Community Infras• Leisure and Tourism chapter seeks to ensure that the needs of local communities, both now and in the future, are met through the adequate provision of a range of social infrastructure such as community, leisure and youth facilities in accessible locations

tructure,





Strengthening the Third Sector (voluntary sector)

To support and encourage the development of a vibrant Third Sector (voluntary organisations).

The Core Strategy provides a positive planning framework which encourages a diverse range of services to the community including the provision of community facilities, youth facilities and the accommodation of community uses within the regeneration of the District’s town centres. It also seeks to encourage the development and enhancement of the voluntary sector.

A recurring theme through the Core Strategy is the need to ensure the District’s sense of community and identity is maintained and enhanced. This is expressed through policies on a variety of themes, including residential development, character of place and social infrastructure.

• Community Facilities • Employment Growth/Policy ED1





Increasing Accessibility to Services

To reduce inequalities in service provision and add extra value through a holistic approach to ensure that rural communities and those at particular disadvantage have access to all services.

The Core Strategy seeks to maximise the accessibility of services through a range of actions including: the balanced delivery of housing both in areas where existing services are available and accessible, and to areas where additional housing will ensure local services will be viable and will help increase accessibility to services; the regeneration of the District’s town centres to ensure a range of facilities that meet local demand; the provision of additional community, leisure, retail and employment uses within accessible locations; and improving transport links between rural settlements in the east of the District and the west of the District, where services and facilities are concentrated.

• The strategy for housing provision is set out in the Housing chapter

• Extensions to residential envelopes and phasing/Policies H2 and H3

• Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation/Policy H7

• The Retail and Town Centres chapter seeks to ensure local commercial centres provide for the needs of local communities and benefit from regeneration (through the preparation of Area Action Plans), where appropriate The Community Infras• Leisure and Tourism chapter seeks to ensure that local communities, have a sufficient range of social infrastructure in accessible locations The Transport chapter seeks to

tructure,

• improve community access to local services through encouraging a range of sustainable transport methods and improving east to west connections





Keeping Rochford Safe

To ensure that our communities feel safe and that their fear of crime decreases.

Planning has a role to play in the reduction of crime and the reduction of the fear of crime. The Core Strategy has identified specific local opportunities for regeneration which will seek to design out crime and reduce anti-social behaviour.

• The need to create safe and inclusive communities with the extension of residential envelopes is considered in the Housing chapter

• Regeneration of the District’s commercial centres of Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford through the preparation of Area Action Plans presents an opportunity to design out crime and address issues of anti-social behaviour

• The provision of youth facilities (Youth Facilities/Policy CLT8) to provide appropriate and inclusive facilities in accessible locations





Encouraging Economic Development: Skills, Employment and Enterprise

To encourage a thriving and enterprising local economy that has high levels of skills, sustainable businesses and increased employment opportunities.

The Core Strategy directs additional employment to appropriate, sustainable locations that will meet the needs of businesses and employees.

The Core Strategy seeks to enable the delivery of the spatial aspects of the Council’s Economic Development Strategy. It does this through a range of policies, including supporting the implementation of a number of schemes that will provide enhanced employment opportunities, the creation of an environment which will allow new businesses to grow, and providing training opportunities for local residents. It also sets a planning policy framework which is supportive of small and medium sized businesses

The Core Strategy sets the overarching policy for London Southend Airport, which seeks to realise its economic potential, whilst having regard to local amenity and environmental issues.

The Core Strategy seeks to enable rural diversification and support rural enterprise, whilst having regard to the need to protect the character and openness of the Green Belt.

• The Economic Development chapter seeks to encourage employment growth within the District, realise the potential of London Southend Airport and environs through the production of a Joint Area Action Plan and strategically relocate employment land in the District, where appropriate

• Rural Diversification and Recreational Uses/Policy GB2

• The Retail chapter seeks to retain and enhance the District’s local commercial centres, in particular supporting the regeneration of Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford centres


evelopment Framework Core Strategy

16

Rochford District Council – Local D

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Strategy

Priority Objective Role of Core Strategy in Achieving Objective Key Section/Policies of Core Strategy

Promoting a Greener District

To address the causes of climate change at a local level for the benefit of those that live, work in and visit the District

This issue is one which runs as a theme through the whole of the Core Strategy. In particular, policies on future housing (including location and Code for Sustainable Homes requirement), transport (reducing the requirement to travel), and environmental issues seeks to minimise the local contribution towards climate change.

• Extensions to residential envelopes and phasing/Policy H2

• Extension to residential envelopes post-2021/Policy H3

• Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation/Policy H7

• The Environment chapter seeks to protect and enhance the biodiversity and natural environment of the District by protecting sites of local, national and international importance. The chapter also seeks to promote sustainable construction techniques and the use of renewable energy sources, where appropriate Public Transport/Policy T3 •

South Essex Rapid Transit • (SERT)/Policy T4 Travel Plans/Policy T5 •

Policy T6 • Cycling and Walking/• Greenways/Policy T7 • Parking Standards/Policy T8


Local Area Agreements (LAA2) – The Essex Local Area Agreement 2008-2011

1.21 The Local Area Agreement forms a partnership between Rochford District Council, Essex County Council and other councils in the locality (excluding Southend and Thurrock). It identifies 10 key priorities for the District and surrounding areas which need addressing in order to achieve the Essex Strategy’s vision, which is simply “To support Essex people to liberate their potential to enjoy the best quality of life in Britain”.

1.22 The priorities identified in LAA2 and how the Core Strategy will contribute towards their achievement is set out below. It must be stressed, however, that as with the priorities of the Sustainable Community Strategy these priorities cannot be delivered through the planning system alone. Achievement of these objectives requires the combined operations of different departments and organisations.

1.23 The following outlines the role the Core Strategy will play in delivering each of the LAA2 priorities.

LAA2 Priority Role of Core Strategy in Achieving Priority

Key Section/Policies of Core Strategy

Priority 1: Fewer children and young people missing education or not in education, employment or training.

The Council will ensure that the educational needs of the District are met through the provision of educational facilities in accessible locations. Our approach to ensuring employment provision is identified in the Economic Development chapter of the Core Strategy.

• Education/Policy CLT2 and Policy CLT3

• The Economic Development chapter seeks to encourage employment growth, employment sites in accessible locations and training opportunities to meet the needs of the local population

Priority 2: More people supported to live independently in their own homes with better support for carers.

The Core Strategy requires new development to meet the Lifetime Homes Standard, to enable people to stay independent in their homes for longer. The Council also recognise the importance of ensuring the adequate provision of affordable homes within the District to meet the needs of the population.

• Lifetime Homes/Policy H6 • Affordable Housing/ Policy H4 • Healthcare/Policy CLT4 • Community Facilities/Policy

CLT6





Priority 3: Better public health and longer lives.

The Core Strategy contains policies to ensure that future residential development does not negatively impact upon healthcare provision for future and existing communities, and that healthcare facilities are implemented in a timely manner and in accessible locations, where required. The Council are working with the South East Essex Primary Care Trust, or other relevant organisation, and other partners, to ensure that adequate facilities are provided to meet the changing population and their needs.

• Healthcare/Policy CLT4

Priority 4: Children and young people realise their potential in education.

The Core Strategy contains policies to ensure that educational facilities meet the needs of current and future communities, and that such facilities are accessible to the District’s population.

• Education/Policy CLT2 and Policy CLT3

Priority 5: Essex roads are safer, less congested and everyone has access to essential services.

The Core Strategy sets out highway infrastructure improvements which will be made a priority within the District. However, it also contains policies which seek to reduce the populations’ reliance on the private car through development in sustainable locations accessible by alternative transport methods, and the delivery of infrastructure which enables alternatives such as walking and cycling.

• The Transport chapter seeks to improve the highway network through the District, where appropriate, particularly east to west connections. It also seeks to encourage alternative modes of transport and decrease reliance on the private car through, for example, travel plans





Priority 6: More participation in sports, culture and volunteering for the benefit of the whole community.

The Core Strategy contains a number of policies which ensure a range of new leisure development is implemented in accessible locations, and that existing leisure facilities, both informal and formal, are retained. The Core Strategy also recognises the need for additional community facilitates to accompany new development.

• Open Space/Policy CLT5 • Community Facilities/Policy

CLT6 • Leisure Facilities/Policy CLT9 • Playing Pitches/Policy CLT10 • Employment Growth/Policy

ED1

Priority 7: Essex is a safe place to live.

New development will be implemented having regard to the need to design out crime.

Proposed Town Centre Area Actions Plans for Rochford, Hockley and Rayleigh in the Core Strategy will tackle the issue of safety and crime, for example anti-social behaviour, to ensure a safer environment for residents.

• The need to create safe and inclusive communities with the extension of residential envelopes is considered in the Housing chapter

• Regeneration of the District’s commercial centres of Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford through Area Action Plans presents an opportunity to design out crime and address issues of anti-social behaviour

• The provision of youth facilities (Youth Facilities/Policy CLT8) to provide appropriate and inclusive facilities in accessible locations





Priority 8: Essex has a strong and competitive economy.

The Core Strategy contains a raft of policies which will aid the delivery of the Council’s Economic Development Strategy, enable the development of key employment generators, and deliver additional employment uses within sustainable locations.

• The Economic Development chapter seeks to encourage employment growth within the District, realise the potential of London Southend Airport and environs through the production of a Joint Area Action Plan and strategically relocate employment land in the District, where appropriate

• Rural Diversification and Recreational Uses/Policy GB2

• The Retail chapter seeks to retain and enhance the District’s local commercial centres, in particular supporting the regeneration of Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford centres

Priority 9: A smaller carbon footprint with less waste.

The Core Strategy outlines how new development will be required to be more energy efficient and sustainable. The Core Strategy also promotes the development of small and large scale renewable energy schemes.

• The efficient use of land for housing/Policy H1

• Extensions to residential envelopes and phasing/ Policy H2

• Extension to residential envelopes post-2021/ Policy H3

• Large Scale Renewable Energy Projects/Policy ENV6

• Small Scale Renewable Energy Projects/Policy ENV7

• Code for Sustainable Homes/Policy ENV9

• BREEAM/Policy ENV10 • Public Transport/Policy T3 • South Essex Rapid Transit

(SERT)/Policy T4 • Travel Plans/Policy T5 • Cycling and Walking/Policy T6 • Greenways/Policy T7





Priority 10: Amanaged environment.

well

l ent, for

d enhance l

t by

d international also

cal and ical sites

The Core Strategy supports the preservation of the District’s valuable naturaand historic environmexample through the protection of Local Wildlife Sites and reintroduction of the Council’s Local List.

• The Environment chapter seeks to protect anthe biodiversity and naturaenvironment of the Districprotecting sites of local, national animportance. The chapterseeks to protect historiarchaeolog

• Local List/Policy CP3 1.24 The Core Strategy will have to be reviewed in the ev

Agreement, post-2011, setting different priorities.

East of England Plan

1.25 The East of England Plan outlines planning policy fo al Development Framework is required to conform to it. The contains an array of policies which are applicable to the whole of the region and which the District must consider. In addition, the plan also for individual districts and boroughs. Those which are particularly relevant to Rochford are as follows:

• Provision of 4,600 additional dwellings betwe

• Creation of no less than 3,000 additional jobs

• ch ans by 2 f 22 pitche

• London South nom

Additional Relevant Strat

1.26 The Council have a urrentlelements are expressLocal Planning Authority cannot deliver the Council’s objectives alone and must work in partnership with other organisations. Their strategies also influence this document (and, once finalised, vice versa).

ent of a new Local Area

r the whole region and our LocEast of England Plan

contains detailed requirements

en 2001 and 2021.

.

Provision of acarav

n additional 15 authorised pit018, to achieve a total o

end Airport as a driver for eco

egies

number of other strategies ced within this Core Strategy. However, it recognised that the

es for Gypsy and Traveller s.

ic development.

y in place whose spatial



1.27

Regional Strategies

The strategies at regional, sub-regional, county, district and sub-district levels includethe following:

• East of England Plan (2008) • Framework for Regional Employment and Skills Action (FRESA) • Regional Economic Strategy (2008-2031) • Regional Environment Strategy (2003) • Regional Health Strategy 2005-2010 • Regional Housing Strategy 2005-2010 • Regional Social Strategy (2007)

egional Strategies Sub-R

Thames Gateway South Essex Partnership:

• Delivering the Future (2003) • Green Grid Strategy (2005) • Thames Gateway South Essex Sub Regional Housing Strategy 2008-11

County Strategies

Essex untyCo Council:

• Adult Health & Community Well-being Accommodation Strategy • Childcare Sufficiency Assessment • The Children and Young People's Plan • Disabled Accommodation Strategy • Essex and Southend Waste Local Plan (2001) • Essex Biodiversity Action Plan • The Essex Design Guide (2005) • Essex Sports Facilities Strategy 2007-2020 • Essex Strategy 2008-2018 • Essex Supporting People 5 Year Strategy 2005-2010 • Local Area Agreement 2 2008-2011 • Local Transport Plan 2006-2011 • Mental Health Accommodation Strategy • School Organisation Plan 2008-2013 • The Urban Place Supplement



District Strategies

• Asset Management Plan (2008) • Climate Change and Sustainability Strategy 2008-2013 • Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans (2007) • Contaminated Land Strategy (2004) • Corporate Plan 2009 • Crime and Disorder Reduction Strategy 2005-2008 • Crouch and Roach Estuaries Management Plan (2005) • Cultural Strategy (2004) • Economic Development Strategy (2009) • Housing Strategy (2009) • Partnership Guidance (2008) • Play Action Plan (2008) • Play Strategy 2007-2012 • Sustainable Community Strategy (2009)

Sub-D rict ist Strategies

Hockle arisy P h Plan Group:

• Hockley Parish Plan

Rawre Parith sh Council:

• Rawreth Parish Plan

Rochford Parish Council:

• 2004 Vision Statement

1.28 ver the form of Planning Policy Guidance Notes (PPGs),

ni Ss) and circulars also guide the content of the Core

Evidence Base

1.29 In terms of the evidence base the Council have drawn upon in drafting this document, in addition to the aforementioned strategies and plans, the following have played an important role in informing the Core Strategy:

• Affordable Housing Viability Study (2010) assesses the viability of the affordable housing policy in the Core Strategy.

• Annual Monitoring Reports report on a range of indicators on an annual basis since 2004.

Go nment planning policy, in Plan ng Policy Statements (PPStrategy.



• Call for Sites was carried out in early 2007 and resulted in the submission of a number of sites from developers, land-owners and agents for consideration by

ent carried out on the Issues and Options version of the of the Core Strategy Preferred Options

the revised version of the Core Strategy Preferred Options in 2008. the results of the consultation of the general public and

specific stakeholders, this includes reports on the results of workshops at King ool, Fitzwimarc School and Greensward Academy undertaken to

ung people in the District.

• Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans (2007) assess the

ment Land Study (2008) examines the supply and demand for various s of employment land and compares this to the current and projected

the District in order to determine the spatial

ent (2003) outlines the extent of the three broad landscape character types within the District, and includes an

• Essex Thames Gateway Water Cycle Study – Scoping Study (2009) a sub-

r infrastructure which serves the population of the South Essex

• Local Wildlife Site Review (2007) is an assessment of existing and potential

•

• Open Space Study (2009) sion and quality of a

• shopping and leisure use habits of the District’s residents, and the spatial implications of these for the

• 2006) storic environment

within the District and facilitates the integration of management and conservation principles within the planning process.

the Council.

• Community InvolvemCore Strategy in 2006, the first version in 2007 andAs well as reports on

Edmund Schascertain the views of yo

characteristics of the District’s Conservation Areas, as well as proposing actionto ensure their value is retained or enhanced.

• Employformfuture economic profile ofrequirements for future employment.

• Essex Landscape Character Assessm

assessment of their sensitivity to different forms of development.

regional review of the existing condition of both the natural water environment and the wate

• Joint Strategic Needs Assessment (2008) details a wealth of data around health and well-being issues in Essex.

local wildlife sites to determine their importance as natural habitats.

Looking Back and Moving Forward – Assessing the Housing Needs of Gypsies and Travellers in Essex (2006) provides an assessment of the projected future accommodation needs for Gypsies and Travellers up until 2016.

examines the current provivariety of open spaces throughout the District.

Retail and Leisure Study (2008) examines the

future development of the area.

Rochford District Historic Environment Characterisation Project (provides a wealth of evidence on the importance of the hi



• Rochford Futures Report profiles the social, economic and environmental characteristics of Rochford District at a District and Ward level.

• Strategic Environmental Assessment Baseline Information Profile 2008-

• Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment determines the availability,

• Strategic Housing Market Assessment 2008 provides data on housing

n in order to reflect changes to the Thames Gateway South Essex housing market in the

• ere out on previous documents, assessing the social, economic and

environmental impacts of proposed policies. The results of these have been

Submission Sustainability Appraisal (Core Strategy Sustainability Appraisal Addendum 2011) was

ic

tegic Environmental Assessments. The addendum provides further detail on the appraisal of the preferred general

• t b-region, and calculated

the probability of their flooding, enabling land across the sub-region to be

• Thames Gateway South Essex Strategic Flood Risk Assessment Review –

2006.

• Urban Capacity Study (2007) examines the capacity to accommodate

2009 presents a plethora of secondary data about the social, physical, environmental and demographic characteristics of the District.

suitability and achievability of housing development sites within the District.

supply and demand at the sub-regional level. The Strategic Housing Market Assessment: Update Report 2010 provides a review of the situatio

period from October 2008 to February 2010.

Sustainability Appraisals and Strategic Environmental Assessments wcarried

incorporated into this document. Appraisals of this document have also beenundertaken. An addendum to the Core Strategy

produced in June 2011 following the Forest Heath court ruling (Save HistorNewmarket v. Forest Heath District Council) which provided an additional interpretation on undertaking Stra

locations and the reasonable alternatives.

Thames Gateway South Essex Strategic Flood Risk Assessmendetermined the areas at risk of flooding across the su

categorised as Flood Zone 1, 2, 3 depending on the risk.

Scoping Report (2009) provides a review of the Thames Gateway South Essex Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) which was published in

development within the District on existing appropriate sites. This study has been superseded by the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment.



2 Spat

Introductio

2.1 A deta d in the 20This ch eristics, together with the key issues

2.2 The D d Crouchbound -on-Sea Borough

2.3 The Dnumber of settlements, the three largest of which are Rayleigh, Rochford and Hockley.

2.4 The Rand na e. There are more than 200 sites of archaeological interest, 14 ancient woodlands and several nature reserves across the District.

2.5 The District is predominantly rural, which is reflected in the fact that 12,763 hectares are designated as Metropolitan Green Belt. Large areas of the District are of ecological importance, with Sites of Special Scientific Interest totalling 12,986 hectares.

2.6 Part of Rochford District is also within the Thames Gateway – a national priority for regeneration.

Environment

2.7 The landscape of the character of the District has been broadly identified as being made up of three types: Crouch and Roach Farmland; Dengie and Foulness Coastal; and South Essex Coastal Towns. The latter of these three is least sensitive to development. The locations of these character areas are identified within the Strategic Environmental Assessment Baseline Information Profile.

2.8 A significant proportion of the District’s land is protected for its landscape and/or ecological value. Such areas are focused in the east of the District towards the coast, but also includes a large area to the south of Hockley (Hockley Woods and the Upper Roach Valley) The exact extent of such areas is shown in the Strategic Environmental Assessment Baseline Information Profile.

2.9 The character of the District is split, with a clear east-west divide. Areas at risk of flooding and of ecological importance are predominantly situated in the sparsely populated, relatively inaccessible east. The west of the District contains the majority of the District’s population, has better access to services and fewer physical constraints.

ial Characteristics, Issues and Opportunities

n

iled assessment of the spatial characteristics of Rochford District is provide08-2009 Strategic Environmental Assessment Baseline Information Profile. apter provides a summary of these charact

and opportunities they represent.

istrict of Rochford is situated within a peninsula between the Rivers Thames an, and is bounded to the east by the North Sea. The District has land

aries with Basildon and Castle Point District and SouthendCouncils. It also has marine boundaries with Maldon and Chelmsford Districts. The District has linkages to the M25 via the A127 and has a direct rail link to London.

istrict is home to an estimated 82,200 people as at 2009 dispersed among a

ochford District has a total land mass of 16,800 hectares. It is rich in heritage tural beauty, with many miles of unspoilt coastline and attractive countrysid



2.1 The District’s coast is largely undeveloped, relatively inaccessible, and hareas of ecological importance, including Sites of Special Scientific Inter

0 ome to large est, Special

Areas, Ramsar Sites and Special Areas of Conservation. Foulness Island by the Ministry of Defence and is used as a proving ground over marsh

Issues

2.11 ted by physical constraints, including land at risk of

2.12 g t

2.13

2.14 pportunities to be created if such spaces

2.15 , most noticeably the Upper Roach Valley and Hockley Woods which have

2.16 development the District is required to accommodate has the potential pon the environment, and on resources. While many of these issues are to the District, water supply merits particular mention. South Essex relies

atment

2.18 ortunity – one which will have to be carefully

2.19

Protectionis owned sands for munitions, with access to it restricted.

and Opportunities

Locations for development are limiflooding, areas protected for their landscape value, sites protected for their ecological value etc. Some such areas are of local, regional, national and international importance, including those protected by the EU Habitats Directive.

7,071 hectares of the Rochford District have a 1% annual probability of fluvial floodinand/or a 0.5% annual probability of tidal flooding, as calculated by the EnvironmenAgency.

The District contains a number of Conservation Areas which will continue to evolve and develop over time. It is crucial that any change is managed to preserve the unique character of such areas, whilst allowing them to adapt to change.

Large areas of open space are located in proximity to the District’s main settlements.This provides the potential for recreational oare linked to areas of residence. The Upper Roach Valley provides a particular opportunity.

The western area of the District contains areas of ecological and landscape importancethe potential to provide high quality open space accessible to people.

The additional to impact unot specificon water imported from outside of the area and additional development will exacerbate this requirement. Development will need to be implemented in a manner which minimises its impact on the environment and enables the conservation of resources, as well as being phased to enable providers of water supply and treinfrastructure to upgrade capacity in a timely manner.

2.17 The physical geography of the District gives rise to the potential to explore opportunities to promote tourism. The potential impact of such tourism on the environment must be carefully considered.

The Wallasea Island Wild Coast project, adjacent to the realigned coast of Wallasea Island, represents a particular tourism oppmanaged given the area’s ecological importance.

The nature of the District engenders the potential to position Rochford District as the ‘green part’ of the Thames Gateway South Essex sub-region.



Population and society

The last Census in 2001 recorded the District as having a population of 78,489. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimates that the population of the District in 2is 82,200 and projects that this will rise to 87,000

2.20 009

by 2021.

h as

Issues and Opportunities

2.21 The population of Rochford District is unevenly distributed. The largest settlement is Rayleigh which, in 2001, was home to 30,196 people (38% of the District’s residents at that time). The population of the District in 2001 was broken down by Parisfollows:

Parish 2001 Population Ashingdon 3165 Barling 1657 Canewdon 1477 Foulness 212 Great Wakering 5512 Hawkwell 11231 Hockley 8909 Hullbridge 6445 Paglesham 249 Rawreth 1003 Rayleigh 30196 Rochford 7610 Stambridge 696 Sutton 127

2.22

2.23 ents than the national and l between

stable. ering

verall increase in the District’s population.

for health and social care, rather

e an effect on the social and economic futures of local young people.

The distribution of facilities and services across the District broadly reflects the distribution of population.

Rochford District has a higher proportion of older residregional averages. The under-20 population of the District is expected to fal2008 and 2025, with the population of those aged 20 to 64 remaining relatively The over-65 population is expected to increase considerably by 2025, outnumbthe under-20’s by 2015, and leading to an o

2.24 The District’s ageing population may result in a smaller workforce and a higher dependency ratio, to the detriment of the economic prospects of the area. The ageing population could also lead to an increased demandthan services for youth. However, a lack of facilities for young people is a current weakness in the District. The changing demographic balance could result in the isolation of pockets of young people in the area – this may hav



2.25 The need to support theSustainable Community Stra

area’s ageing population is a key priority within the District’s tegy and planning has an important role to play in

services and facilities are

es relatively modest levels of in-migration, primarily into areas

2.27 t

r levels of in-migration in these parts are due to parents seeking the quality of life and prosperity needed to support families.

Housing

2.28 As at September 20 were 34,464 hou s within Rochford District. The average price of a detached dwelling in July 2008 was £300,000, which is lower than the average price for the same property type in Essex (£397,967, source: www.home.co.uk).

2.29 The East of England Plan requires that a minimum of 4600 dwellings be built in Rochford District between 2001 and 2021. This figure is based on meeting the needs of the current and the future population of the District.

2.30 Current need encom number of peo he District who are living within a household and who want to move to their own accommodation and form a separate household. Projected need is derived from the supposition that the population is projected to increase from 81,300 in 2007 to 87,000 by 2021. In order to meet the needs of our growing population, houses need ovided for those moving to their own accommodatio

2.31 The East of England Plan acknowledges that between 2001 and 2006 810 dwellings were completed in the District. Furthermore, between 2006 and 2008 an additional 618 dwellings were developed.

ing adoption of the RCS in 2010, that would mean

Issues

2.33

intensification existing settlements can sustain without their character being adversely such

2.34

ssessment Baseline Information Profile.

ensuring that the local population is able to live independently for as long as possible and receive high quality services when needed. For example, the Council must ensure that appropriate forms of housing are implemented and thataccessible.

2.26 The District experiencalong the border with Basildon but also into the Foulness and Great Wakering Ward.

The average household size in Rochford District is greater than the national average.This is particularly the case in the western part of the District, perhaps indicating thathe highe

09, there sehold

passes the ple in t

to be prn.

2.32 The Council are required to ensure there is an adequate supply of housing for a15 year period, and assumcontinuing the annual requirement beyond 2021 to 2025.

and Opportunities

The District is predominately Green Belt, tightly drawn around existing settlements, the vast majority of which is undeveloped. There is a limit to how much infilling and

affected, particularly given that the District contains ten Conservation Areas. Asthere are concerns as to the land uptake and loss of greenfield land that the housing requirement will engender.

Potential housing development land is further limited by the fact that much of the District is subject to constraints which prohibit the development of housing, such as Flood Zone 3 or areas of ecological importance. Details of land subject to constraints are included within Strategic Environmental A



2.35 There is a high-level of home ownership in the District. However, concealed households (person or persons living within a household wanting to move to theaccommodation and form a separate household, e.g. adult children living with their parents) are largely unable to afford to enter the local housing market due to the gap between house prices and income. There is a limited supply of affordable housing in the District a

ir own

nd the development of additional affordable units across the region is not

conomically unviable and mends local authorities across the housing market area set a requirement for

of new dwellings to be affordable.

rket for (although notes that actual demand for intermediate housing is

s aim

ng in

2.38

keeping pace with demand. The Thames Gateway South Essex Strategic Housing Market Assessment identifies a total newly-arising housing need of 241 per annum inRochford District. It also calculates that there is a need for 131 net additional dwellings per annum to be developed in the District – this represents 52% of the District’s annual housing completion requirement as set out in the East of England Plan. The Thames Gateway South Essex Strategic Housing Market Assessment notes the need to ensure that the affordable housing requirements set by local authorities do not render the delivery of housing erecom35%

2.36 The Thames Gateway South Essex Strategic Housing Market Assessment also examines the need for different forms of affordable housing. The assessment found an acute need for social rented housing, as well as significant potential maintermediate housingstill somewhat unproven). As such, the assessment recommends local authoritiefor an 80:20 split of affordable housing between social rented and intermediate provision.

2.37 Housing need studies and other data from sources such as the housing waiting list indicate that demand for housing is focused primarily on the District’s larger settlements of Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford, but there is still demand for housiother settlements.

A snapshot of housing need based on the Council’s housing waiting list in May 2009 indicated that demand was distributed as follows:

Settlement Housing waiting list demand (percentage

of District total) Rayleigh 44.4 Rochford 29.0 Hockley 6.3 Great Wakering 5.9 Hullbridge 5.5 Stambridge 0.8 Rawreth 0.6 Canewdon 0.4 No preference 7.2

As well as directing housing growth to areas of need/demand, and away from unsustainable locations subject to constraints, the Council must consider the relationship of housing growth to areas of employment growth.

2.39



2.40 The development of additional housing will impact upon all forms of physical asocial infrastructure. This impact will require contributions to be made by developers by way of planning obligations.

Failure to provide affordable housing that meets the needs of the District’s residents may lead to continued out-migration, to the detriment of the vitality of local communities.

The construction of additional housing will have the potential to deliver affordabhousing to meet the current shortfall, in order to supply housing for local communneed. This will only happen, however, if planning policies are in place to ensure a proportion of the housing developed is affordable.

The release of land for housing provides an opportunity to ensure that infrasdeveloped alongside it that benefits residents of both existing dwellings and those thawill be developed. Planning obligations

nd

2.41

2.42 le ity

2.43 tructure is t

and the use of standard charges provide a

Econ

2.44

re of -driven jobs.

t

ome pockets of poorer health in the more urban areas


2.46 The small econom dest leve l competition may be undermining the sustainability of the Roch ulting in Rochford ranked within the lowest quartile of local districts by its economic change score.

2.47 In addition, data at the ward level shows some evidence of an economic divide between urban and rural areas; this is particularly noticeable in levels of skills, where wards close to the coast have significantly lower levels of skills than wards close to the town centres.

2.48 The economy of t dominated by the ice sector with over three-quarters of those employed in the District working in this sector. This is, however, a smaller proportion than that of either the region or the country.

2.49 Although the District is predominantly rural, the proportion of local businesses involved in agricultural activities is low, constituting a fraction over 3% of VAT registered

mechanism to contribute towards the delivery of the required infrastructure.

omy

Rochford has a small, but reasonably productive, and enterprising economy. Although the District does not record significant levels of ‘high skills’, a solid foundation of basic and intermediate skills underpins the local economy, and supports a healthy shaknowledge

2.45 Rochford District is a generally prosperous part of the country, despite only a modesshare of resident ‘knowledge workers’, the typically higher paid employees. This is reflected in reasonably low deprivation, excellent health conditions among the District’s population (although sare evident), and one of the lowest crime rates in the country.

ic scale, mo ls of high skills and locaford economy; res

he District is serv

businesses in Rochford District compared to national and regional figures of a fraction over 5% and over 5.5%, respectively.



2.50 The direction of travel for the local economy is not as positive as many other localauthorities in the UK. Rochford relies on jobs in manufacturing to a greater degree than nationally and regionally, ye

t this is the sector which is shrinking the most due to changes in the economy. However, type of manufacturing is important and Rochford

2.51 prise in the District is largely made up of smaller firms, with nearly three-quarters of businesses employing between 0 and 4 people. This is above the

ge

2.52 er weekly incomes) are found mainly along the borders of Basildon and around Rochford town centre – giving rise to

2.53 % travel to work in Southend, 14% to London, 9% to Basildon and 15% travel elsewhere

the District.

port.

ent

2.56 rnment as one of the growth areas for new housing in the South

h Essex is focused on the creation of

nsion of the Green Grid – the connection of residential areas with green spaces.

2.57

available in the District – provide economic opportunities.

2.58

2.59

has a number of specialist manufacturing businesses which continue to perform well.

Business enter

national average. Conversely, the District contains few businesses that employ larnumbers of people.

The more highly paid knowledge workers (with high

another rural-urban divide in the District. Higher levels of deprivation are found in the more rural parts of Rochford.

A high proportion of the Rochford workforce commutes out of the District. 30

outside

2.54 London Southend Airport is located within the District and has the potential to be a focus for economic growth, not simply in terms of aviation-related industries, but also as a catalyst for wider forms of employment which would benefit from being in proximity to a thriving air

2.55 Skills and training opportunities must be made available to local people to ensure that local communities will benefit from employment opportunities. In addition, the Council must consider the distribution of housing growth in relation to employmgrowth areas.

The Thames Gateway is a national priority for regeneration and growth and has been identified by the goveEast. The vision for Thames Gateway Soutsustainable communities that make the most of the unique characteristics of South Essex. Rochford District is recognised as an area for developing leisure, recreation and tourism activities and in particular is key to the development and expa

Rochford District’s proximity to engines of economic growth – London, South East knowledge economy etc – together with improvements in technology and the more rural quality of life

Transport

Rochford District has two strategic trunk routes in and around its boundary, namely the A130 and A127. The A127 provides a link to London, a main commuter and employment destination. There are also three train stations located in the District, which provide a direct service to London Liverpool Street.

London Southend Airport is located on the boundary with Southend Borough and is predominantly within Rochford District.




There is a high level of car-ownership in the District. However, the proportion of people travelling to work by public transport is greater than the national and regional averages, primarily due to the accessibility of rail links from the District three main

2.60

urban areas.

2.61

as the potential to be exacerbated if development is not

outhend or Chelmsford/Basildon are drawn through the centre

e ment in areas where alternatives to car use are more

viable, alongside other sustainability issues.

o

2.64 ere is

Settle

d

egion, re from a wider area and contributing to the leakage of

ng out of the District. The retail catchment area of Southend overlays those of

2.66 ith different nearby towns.

Away from the three main settlements, car dependency is high. Congestion and environmental impacts will continue to worsen with population growth if this trend is not reversed.

2.62 The strength of the spheres of influence of the large neighbouring centres of Southend, Basildon and Chelmsford means that traffic is drawn through Rochford District’s own centres to them. This not only has an impact on traffic congestion in general, but also engenders concern with regards to air quality within the District’s town centres. This situation hdirected to the appropriate locations around settlements. Particular locations where this is a concern include east of Rayleigh, where commuters to Basildon and Chelmsford are drawn through the centre of Rayleigh; west of Hockley, where those commuting by car to Sof Hockley or Rayleigh, respectively; and east of Rochford, where vehicular movements would inevitably be directed through Rochford’s historic centre. Given such concerns the location of future development must be considered alongsidopportunities to locate develop

2.63 The lack of public transport provision throughout most of the District is an obstacle treducing car dependency. There is, however, some opportunity to utilise public transport, particularly within the three main settlements which contain rail links between each other, Southend and London.

Current cycle networks in the District are limited both in quantity and quality and do not encourage people to travel by bicycle. Through the new planning process, than opportunity to improve this situation and provide an integrated network of cycle paths across the District.

ments

2.65 The proximity of Southend-on-Sea and the relationship between this urban area anthe predominantly rural Rochford District has a considerable impact upon the characteristics of the District. Southend is the largest retail centre in the sub-rattracting consumer expendituspendiall of the District’s centres. In addition, Southend provides a range of employment opportunities and is within easy commuting distance of a large proportion of the District’s population.

Different parts of the District have a stronger relationship wThis relationship is illustrated in diagrammatic form below.



Cane

chford

w

o

HocklHawk

llbridge

Rayleigh

Hu don

Great Wakering

ey & well

Making a Difference

R

34



2.67 Within the District there are four tiers of settlement. The first tier comprises Rayleigh, Rochford and Hockley. These are all settlements with a range of services and facilities as well as some access to public transport.

2.68 Of the first tier settlements, Rayleigh has the best access to services within the District. Rochford and Hockley contain local town centres catering for local need. Management Horizons Europe’s (MHE) UK Shopping Index (2008) ranks the top 7,000 retail venues within the UK (including town centres, stand-alone malls, retail warehouse parks and factory outlets) based on current retail provision. This index ranks Rayleigh as a minor district centre, Rochford as a local centre, and Hockley as a minor local.

2.69 All of the District’s settlements have their own identity and characteristics. However, in terms of housing markets and access to services and facilities, it is possible to group some of the District’s settlements: Rochford and Ashingdon; and Hockley and Hawkwell.

2.70 The second tier comprises Hullbridge and Great Wakering. These settlements have a more limited range of services and access to public transport is relatively poor.

2.71 The third tier is made up of the small rural settlement of Canewdon. This settlement has few services and public transport provision is generally poor.

2.72 The remaining rural settlements, groups of dwellings located within the Green Belt, can be grouped together as a fourth tier. These settlements have little or no services and residents are often completely depen t on the private car to access facilities.

2.73 The District’s towns and villages are divelocation and size. The character, layout aspaces make a significant contribution to providing a sense of place and adding to the quality of life in town and country. Residents have a strong sense of identity with their own settlement.

den

rse in character reflecting their history, nd form of groups of buildings, streets and



3 Vision

The Special Qualities of Rochford District

Rochford is a predominantly rural District situated in t3.1 he south east corner of Essex, is

s

iles of unspoilt coastline and attractive countryside.

y

s

which are diverse in reflecting their individual history, location and size, and residents

3.4

needs of existing and future communities is paramount.

The Vision for Rochford District

3.5 The Council’s corporate vision is shared with that of the Local Strategic Partnership:

‘To make Rochford District a place which provides opportunities for the best possible quality of life for all who live, work and visit here’

To support this, the Council has four main corporate objectives. These are:

• Making a difference to our people

• Making a difference to our community

• Making a difference to our environment

• Making a difference to our local economy

covering an area of 65 square miles between the Rivers Thames and Crouch. It bounded to the east by the North Sea, which contributes to the important natural qualities of the local landscape. The District has land boundaries to the south and west with Basildon District, Castle Point and Southend–on–Sea Borough Councils, alongside northern marine boundaries with Maldon and Chelmsford Districts. It is located within south east Essex, benefiting from important road and rail linkages to London.

3.2 Whilst it is within easy reach of key economic hubs, the District retains its rural character, with the vast majority of it Greenfield, Green Belt land encompassing numerous local, national and international sites of nature conservation importance. Asuch the landscape of the District is rich in biodiversity, heritage and natural beauty, with many m

3.3 There are three main settlements within the District namely Rochford, Hockley and Rayleigh, located in an arc along the Southend Victoria to Liverpool Street railwaline, and these provide a range of services and facilities for local communities. The space between these settlements and the urban boundary of Southend to the south ian important green area, with many protective designations, including an ancient woodland and country park; this is the district’s green lung. Beyond the three main settlements, the character is of rural countryside with smaller village settlements and sporadic groups of dwellings. The District’s settlements have distinct characteristics,

have a strong sense of identity with their own settlement.

Preserving and enhancing the special natural and built characteristics of Rochford District is important and so developing a vision which reflects this aspiration whilst providing for the



3.6 Having regard Strategy, a mo

to the Council’s corporate vision and the Sustainable Community re detailed vision has been prepared for the Core Strategy which flows

s identified in the previous section of ut below.

3.7 ,

ateway South Essex, and reinforcing the importance of the green lung roved

ds of

3.8 the greatest range of

e,

re have been implemented.

ted

e impact on the character and vation Areas. Redevelopment of buildings in the

3.10 ecific transport

on the District’s roads. Improvements to public res in to a more frequent, reliable and comprehensive public transport system with

3.11 The Council is using the findings of the Employment Land Study to ascertain future em s, and to assist in identifying alternative locations for old and poorly located employment sites which are no longer fit-f p Airport and its environs is beginning to take shape through the provision of a Joint Area Action Plan in partnership with

from the characteristics, issues and opportunitiethis document. The vision for the District is set o

Short Term

The openness and character of the Rochford Green Belt continues to be protectedthough small areas next to settlements have been released for development. CherryOrchard Jubilee Country Park has been expanded to the east and west and access from Cherry Orchard link road, including improved footpath and cycle access has been implemented, enhancing Rochford District’s role as the green part of the Thames Gbetween the main settlements. Other parks and open spaces continue to be impthrough a rolling programme of open space refurbishment, contributing to the neelocal areas and improving linkages to the countryside.

The Council’s balanced strategy to the distribution of housing is beginning to take shape: housing development is focussed on the settlements with services and facilities, but directing a proportion to smaller settlements to ensure that rural communities are nurtured and sustained. At the same time, the distribution of housing is balanced ensuring that there is a fair and equal division of new development across the district, providing new sustainable, residential developments that are carefully planned well related to infrastructure, community facilities, and play spaces. These have begun to be implemented alongside the additional infrastructurmeeting the identified needs of local communities. A new single-form entry primary school with early years and childcare facilities has been built in Rochford, well related to residential development, and is serving the local community. Additional facilities for young people are being provided, with at least one new facility a year being developed. Additional leisure uses at Rayleigh leisure cent

3.9 The character of the District continues to be enhanced. A Local List has been adopwhich has afforded additional protection to locally significant buildings and items of street furniture. Work has begun on implementing the Conservation Area Management Plans which is having a positivappearance of the District’s ConserBattlesbridge Conservation Area that are unsympathetic to the location is taking place, enhancing the character and appearance of the Conservation Area whilst respecting the objectives of the Green Belt.

The Council has worked with Essex County Council to identify spimprovement schemes, such as online road improvements and the implementation of travel plans. These have been initiated and are helping to reduce congestion

transport, aided by the increase in demand ult g from new development, have led

better linkages between bus and rail.

ployment provision to meet the District’s need

or- urpose. The potential of London Southend



Southend Borough Council. This provides a unique opportunity for employment development delivering jobs that reflect the requirements of aviation industries. On a smaller scale, the long term future of the Baltic Wharf as an employment area has been secured; this is a unique deep water facility, identified as a major built site within the green belt.

3.12 Area Action Plans for Rochford, Rayleigh and Hockley town centres have been

Mediu

3.13 ential developments continue

3.14 rotected

reallocated for employment, and development of these new sites has begun to be

f ed which

hanges in

sustain economic activity and promoting the

e as

3.15 on

regional airport that is supporting new aviation related employment opportunities and r

produced and adopted. The plans provide a clear framework, developed having regard to the results of community involvement, to guide the regeneration of these centres and, in the case of Rochford and Rayleigh, taking into account their historic character and heritage. The first phase of enhancement opportunities is being implemented, making these areas more attractive to visitors and investors.

m Term

The first phase of sustainable urban extensions to meet the District’s housing needs over the plan period have been implemented. New residto be implemented in accordance with the Council’s balanced strategy, providing housing to serve local communities. These new residential developments, designed to reflect the principles of the Essex Design Guide and reflecting local design elements, contain a variety of house types and are well related to new and existing community facilities and services, ensuring sustainable communities. Dwellings are carbon-neutral, meeting Code level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes. Other new non-residential developments are of a sustainable construction, meeting the BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’ as a minimum. New healthcare facilities in accessible locations have been developed in the District, including a new primary care centre which provides hospital-type services such as day care procedures, outpatient clinics and diagnostic tests to the District’s residents.

Sustainable, well used and strategically located industrial estates are being pand enhanced, where appropriate. A small area of the District’s Green Belt has been

implemented facilitating the creation of new jobs which meet the population’s needs and contribute towards the District’s economy. A new employment park in the west othe District with good links to the main access networks has been developcaters for a range of employment types in a flexible manner that adapts to cthe economy. The Eco-Enterprise Centre is a flagship, eco-friendly building creating an inward investment draw which is bringing new businesses into the area. New businesses at the Eco-Enterprise Centre are being supported at the most vulnerable points in their lifecycle, helping to District’s entrepreneurial culture. Appropriate uses within the District’s commercial centres are being supported, providing employment opportunities at the same timenhancing important town centre areas.

The London Southend Airport and Environs Joint Area Action Plan supports and regulates the operations of London Southend Airport taking into consideratienvironmental and social effects, and residential amenity. This is an important sub-

including an Airport skills academy delivering training for aircraft engineers and othetrades. A new airport terminal building and railway station complex has been completed and is operational following the implementation of an agreed surface access strategy.



3.16

ance of greater flexibility towards rural diversification has resulted in

way

3.17 istrict. ct’s rivers. Online highway infrastructure

ents have improved access to Baltic Wharf further securing its future as an

3.18

c of m

3.19

3.20 range

y new infrastructure. A wide range of

ies

3.21 he local

nd viable community facilities. The District’s secondary schools have

been expanded and enhanced.

Green tourism initiatives and rural diversification have provided sustainable opportunities for rural businesses whilst maintaining a high quality environment. Theseinitiatives have encouraged small-scale tourism projects sensitive to the local environment which help to sustain the rural economy without contributing to climate change. Acceptthe development of a number of bed and breakfasts and hotels, facilitating stays in the countryside for visitors to the area. The Wallasea Wetlands project is well on the to completion and provides one of the largest managed retreat projects yet seen inEurope; the project has been designed to reflect the historic characteristics of the oldRochford coastline.

A walking cycling and bridleway network has been implemented across the DThere is improved public access to the Distriimprovememployment area. The South Essex Rapid Transit System (SERT) has been implemented giving people a genuine sustainable alternative to the private car. The District’s tourism offer has been further enhanced through the implementation of heritage initiatives.

The District’s role as the green part of Thames Gateway South Essex has been further solidified. Conditions have been put into place which is enabling wildlife to thrive in the Roach Valley. The area’s size and layout as a green lung within the arthe main settlements, allows for people and wildlife to utilise the space with minimuconflict. Local, national and international sites of nature conservation importance are being increasingly protected and enhanced to improve their biodiversity and wildlife value. The Coastal Protection Belt continues to be protected from unnecessary development and other potentially detrimental impacts.

Long Term

The District’s distinctive character and historical built environment has been protectedand enhanced. The vast majority of the District’s Green Belt remains open and undeveloped, and the District continues to perform the role as the green part of Thames Gateway South Essex. The role of the Upper Roach Valley as a green lung has been further reinforced providing a substantial informal area of recreation, with green links criss-crossing the valley and connecting Rochford with Rayleigh and linking the Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park with Hockley Woods.

New development has been implemented which contributes positively towards the District’s character and ensures the District’s communities continue to thrive. Aof high-quality, sustainable new dwellings with unique vernacular design characteristics that meet the needs of local people of all social groups are in place and integrated into communities and served baccessible community facilities and local services have been provided alongside new development which aids the integration and cohesion of communities. Such facilitinclude green open spaces, community halls, and play spaces, which cater for residents of all ages.

A new single-form entry primary school with early years and childcare facilities has been built in Rayleigh, well related to residential development, and is serving tcommunity. Primary schools in the District’s rural settlements are well attended aremain important,



3.22 Initiatives to reduce carbon emissions from new and existing developments aencouraged and the proportion of the District’s energy supply from renewable and low carbon sources has been increased.

Local, national and international sites of nature conservation importance are protected. The protection of Sites of Special Scientific Interest has resulted in improvements to the percentage of which, by area, are in ‘favourable’ or better condition.

Developer contributio

re being

3.23

3.24 ns have ensured that new developments are well integrated with

en directed to areas where the use of alternatives to the private

ce

3.25

for

3.26 The employment park in the west of the District has been implemented and contains a

rt ted to

3.27 s, services and facilities that meet local demand. The vast majority of new retail development has

public transport. Cycle and pedestrian networks have been developed linking important areas. Road infrastructure through the District has been secured and improved with easier access to the A127 and A130. Basildon, Chelmsford and Southend continue to be significant attractors – although the strength of their spheres of influence on the District has been reduced by enhancement of the District’s town centres, employment areas, and development in and around London Southend airport. In addition to public transport and highway improvements, new residentialdevelopment has becar is viable and where, in the event that car journeys to these spheres of influenare taking place, traffic is directed along strategic routes as far as practicable, avoiding local roads and town centres.

Over 3000 net additional jobs have been provided which meet local employment needs. A balance has been struck between the local workforce and jobs through the aviation-centred skills training academy providing local workers with high-value, transferable skills. London Southend Airport’s potential as an economic catalyst the sub-region has been realised.

range of employment uses providing local jobs. The new employment park is accompanied by a travel plan and is accessible to workers by a range of transpooptions. Old, poorly located, “bad neighbour” industrial estates have been relocafit-for-purpose sites in sustainable locations which meet the needs of businesses andbenefits residential amenity.

The District’s town centres are vibrant places containing a range of shop

been directed to Rochford, Rayleigh and Hockley. Some additional retail has been provided within the District’s smaller settlements and within residential areas outside of the designated centres which provides convenient, accessible top-up shopping for local communities and reduces the need to travel. The leakage of retail expenditure outside of the District has been significantly reduced, with shoppers attracted to the District’s town centres not simply due to the provision of retail, but because of the range of activities and the quality of the environment.



4 Housing

n Visio

• e, community facilities, and play space. These have begun to be

Mediu

•

•

• s

Objectives

1. 2008)

2. Deliver a balanced strategy for the distribution of housing, directing housing growth to

3.

4. Prioritise the redevelopment of appropriate brownfield sites for housing, to minimise

5. s

6.

Short Term

New sustainable, residential developments are planned that are well related to infrastructurimplemented. A number of residential developments, along with additional infrastructure, have been completed and are meeting the needs of local communities.

m/Long Term

A range of high-quality, sustainable new dwellings that meet the needs of local people of all social groups are in place and integrated into communities.

The vast majority of the District’s Green Belt remains undeveloped.

New infrastructure has accompanied new residential development, meeting the needof local communities.

Ensure the delivery of an adequate supply of sustainable dwellings to cater for the District’s growing demand, as per the requirements of the East of England Plan (and a 15 year housing land supply.

the most sustainable locations having regard to social, economic and environmental considerations.

Ensure the District’s settlements remain viable and that rural services can be sustained.

the release of Green Belt land for development.

Ensure the delivery of housing which caters for the needs of all communities in termof tenure, type and location.

Ensure that appropriate infrastructure accompanies new housing development.



Introduction

4.1 It iho

s important that planning ensures the provision of sufficient, good quality new mes in appropriate, sustainable locations.

st of England Plan requires a minimum of 4600 dwellings to be provided in the ired

the irement

ation is based on meeting current and future needs of the population. the District who are living within a

need is derived from the supposition that the population will increase from 81,300 in 2007 to 87,000 by

6, and specifies the remaining provision between 2006 and

2021. Rochford District is required to accommodate 3,790 dwellings between 2006 1, at an approximate average of 250 dwellings per year. Post 2021, in

e with PPS3, the District is required to continue the development rate of ing

4.5 The Annual Monitoring Report confirms that between 2006 and 2008 there were

4.6 gic Housing Land Availability Assessment (SHLAA) examined the supply of housing land and, although identified some capacity from extant permissions

in order to meet the requirements of the East of England Plan as outlined

below.

4.2 The EaDistrict between 2001 and 2021. In addition, the Local Planning Authority is requto plan for delivery of housing for at least 15 years from the date of adoption of Core Strategy (2010) and, in so doing, assume that the average annual requof 250 units will continue beyond 2021 to 2025.

4.3 Rochford’s allocCurrent need encompasses the number of people inhousehold wanting to move to their own accommodation and form a separate household but are unable to do so (e.g. adult children). Projected

2021.

4.4 The East of England Plan notes the provision of housing within local authorities between 2001 and 200

and 202accordanc250 dwellings per year. As such, the Core Strategy addresses the location of housprovision to 2025.

618 additional dwellings completed in the District.

The 2009 Strate

and other appropriate sites, also ascertained that Green Belt would have to bereallocated

Dwellings Source

2006-2015 2015-2021 2021-2025 Total 2006-2025 Housing requirement (250 dwellings per 2250 1500 1000 4750

year)

Actual completions (2006-2008) 618 - - 618

Extant planning permissions 210 0 0 210



Dwellings Source

2006-2015 2015-2021 2021-2025 Total 2006-2025 Existing allocations/other appropriate sites identified in Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment

671 506 0 1177

Total without Green Belt release 1499 506 0 2005

Green Belt release required 751 994 1000 2745

4.7 ng Land Availability Assessment, the Council is

its

4.8

rent infrastructure (along with opportunities to deliver future

brownfield land; community needs and physical constraints; need to protect areas of

4.9

separate from their neighbours and for the purposes of the Core Strategy have been grouped together as one, namely: Rochford/Ashi ockley/Hawkwell. These settlements/groups of settlements can be divided into four tiers, with the settlements in the highe m p to grdemand/need, and generally more suitable to accommodate additional housing for the reasons described above. The settlement hierarchy is as follows:

As noted within the Strategic Housirequired to identify and allocate additional sites for development in order to meethousing requirement. The Core Strategy sets out the general locations for housing development and approach to delivery. The precise boundaries of housing sites will be detailed in the Allocations Development Plan Document.

The concept of sustainable development is at the heart of any decisions with regards to the location of housing. The primary factors in determining the location of future housing include curinfrastructure); access to services; facilities; housing demand/need; deliverability;public transport/possibility of reducing car dependency; opportunities to utilise

landscape value, ecological importance and high quality agricultural land.

As described in the Spatial Characteristics, Issues and Opportunities chapter of this document, the District contains a number of settlements. Some of these settlements, although they have their own distinct identifies, are not functionally

ngdon; and H

r tiers being ore develo ed, subject eater housing

Tier Settlements 1 Rayleigh; ingdon; Hockley/Hawkwell Rochford/Ash

2 Hullbridge; Great Wakering

3 Canewdon

4 All other settlements



4.10 The strategy for the distribution of housing development is a balance between focussing development on the higher tier settlements, whilst allocating a proportion of the housing development to the lower tier settlements (with the exception of the fourth tier, where additional development is considered unsustainable) to ensure these established communities can be sustained and that rural services continue to be s

4.11 The District experiences high-levels of out-commuting and leakages of retail expenditure. Whilst the Core Strategy seeks to counter this situation through a variety of measures, the Core Strategy must also acknowledge that residents will continue to utilise centres outside of Rochford District for employment as well as other services a e, th egy for the location of housing also involves a b en directing additional hous areas with a close relationsSouthend, and those with a closer relationship to Chelmsford and Basildon.

In short, the Council’s approach to the location of housing development can be

The e

4.13 alistic figure that can

4.14

ate,

e land.

4.15

through intensification of existing residential areas, have historically made a contribution towards housing supply within the District and are likely to continue to do so. However, th ou g’ is having on the attractiveness and character of many therefore co lud and the results of the Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment, the government’s target of providing 60% of new housing development on previously developed land has become unrealistic for Rochford

upported.

nd facilities. Thereforalance betwe

e strating to hip to

4.12 described as a balanced strategy.

fficient use of land for housing

The Council recognises the importance of making best use of brownfield land. The Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment identifies a rebe accommodated within existing settlements and other appropriate land, based on the identification of specific sites.

The Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment examines four sites that are currently allocated for employment: Eldon Way/Foundry Estate, Hockley; Rawreth Lane Industrial Estate, Rayleigh; Stambridge Mills; and Star Lane Industrial EstGreat Wakering. In the case of all four sites, the Council believe that their redevelopment to include housing represents a more appropriate use of thIn the case of Eldon Way/Foundry, any redevelopment should also include a range of employment uses appropriate to a town centre location. The Council recognises, however, that additional land in more appropriate locations must be allocated foremployment in order to accommodate businesses displaced from these sites. The Council’s approach to this is set out in the Economic Development section of the Core Strategy.

The Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment and Core Strategy acknowledge that, as set out in PPS3, the Council can not rely on as yet unidentified sites coming forward for development in the future. Such windfall sites, including

e C ncil are concerned about the impact ‘town cramminneighbourhoods across the district. It is

nc ed that, having regard to this

.



4.16 In line with the Habitats Regulations and in consultation with NE, EA and EssexSuffolk Water, development proposals must ensure that the water supply necessary for the development can be supplied sustainably (and without adverse effects on European Sites).

and

Policy H1 – The efficient use of land for housing

The Council will enable the delivery of housing to meet the requirements of the East of England Plan (2008), and will ensure there is an adequate supply of land for the development of housing over a 15 year period.

The C of ouncil will prioritise the reuse of previously developed land and ensure the delivery approp riate sites within existing settlements identified by the Strategic Housing LandAvailability Assessment.

The C Rawreth Lane Industrial Estate, Eldon ouncil will seek the redevelopment ofWay/Foundry Industrial Estate, Stambridge Mills and Star Lane Industrial Estate for appropriate alternative uses, including residential development, with alternative employment land allocated in appropriate locations as identified in Policy ED4.

Any scheme for the redevelopment of Stambridge Mills must include adequate flood mitigation measures to satisfy the PPS25 exceptions test.

Appendix be required for the development of newly H1 outlines the infrastructure that will alloca ed housing sites. t

The re maining housing requirement that cannot be delivered through the redevelopment ofappropriate previously developed land will be met through extensions to the residential envelopes of existing settlements as outlined in Policy H2.

Reside ntial development must conform to all policies within the Core Strategy, particularly inrelation to infrastructure, and larger sites will be required to be comprehensively planned.

In order to protect the character of existing settlements, the Council will resist the intensification of smaller sites within residential areas. Limited infilling will be considered accept tinue to contribute towards housing supply, provided it relates well to able, and will conthe existing street pattern, density and character of the locality.

The Council will encourage an appropriate level of residential intensification within town centre riate. areas, where higher density schemes (75+ dwellings per hectare) may be approp

Exten

4.17 ousing l

of alternative land.

sions to residential envelopes and phasing

In order to fulfil the requirements of the East of England Plan and to meet the hneed of the District, the Council is required to allocate additional land for residentiadevelopment, including land which is currently allocated as Green Belt, due to the limited supply



4.18 Whilst the Council acknowledge that the housing requirement stipulated in the East oEngland Plan is a minimum, it must be also mindful of the need to maintain Green Beas far as possible.

f lt

4.19 The locations and quantums for housing development as set out in Policysuch that on a settlement-by-settlement basis, when combined with development

ousing provision is delivered.

to, n

ppropriate. The Council will direct development to the most sustainable locations on the edge of settlements having

ty and relationship to existing centres, facilities and services;

structure

ng, ne, etc);

• The impact on highway network (including availability and impact on existing

e District’s areas of employment growth;

nsport and Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism chapters. Appendix H1 outlines on-site

f

y of housing in the general for all sites that are ultimately

4.23 er

otential sites within the areas, and the need to ensure that development is phased to allow its integration with existing communities.

H2 are

proposed through H1, a balanced strategy for h

4.20 In addition to identifying settlements where housing development will be directedthe Core Strategy also sets out the areas around such settlements where aextension to the residential envelope is a

regard to:

• The proximi

• The availability of infrastructure and/or the potential for additional infrato be provided for development in such areas;

• The potential to reduce private car dependency;

• The potential to avoid areas of constraint (such as areas at risk of floodisites of ecological importance, public safety zo

• The historical, agricultural and ecological value of land;

network, as well as potential for improvements to be delivered);

• The relationship of development locations to th

• The potential to create a defensible Green Belt boundary; and

• The avoidance of coalescence with neighbouring settlements.

4.21 Development coming forward within the identified areas will have to conform to other Core Strategy policies, notably those discussed in the Tra

infrastructure which will be required to be incorporated into development at each othe locations.

4.22 The Core Strategy sets out broad timings for the deliverlocations identified. It is neither possible, nor desirable,allocated for housing to be delivered simultaneously.

A number of factors have been considered when drawing up the proposed general phasing of development, including the availability of infrastructure (in particular watinfrastructure), the deliverability of p



4.24 It is also important to phase the loss of Green Belt land to ensure that there is not an early or excessive release which may discourage redevelopment of previously developed land or undermine town centre regeneration proposals.

d ry

on European Sites).

4.25 In line with the Habitats Regulations and in consultation with NE, EA and Essex anSuffolk Water, development proposals must ensure that the water supply necessafor the development can be supplied sustainably (and without adverse effects

Policy H2 – Extensions to residential envelopes and phasing

The re velope of existing settlements will be extended in the areas set out below sidential enand indicated on the Key Diagram, to contribute to a five year supply of housing land in the period 201 to 5, and between 2015 and 2021.

A rea Dwellings by

2015 Dwellings 2015-2021

N of London Road, Rayleigh orth 550

West Rochford 450 150

West Hockley 50

South Hawkwell 175

East Ashingdon 100

S h West Hullbridge out 250

South Canewdon 60

T l ota 775 1010

The de iled e Allocations ta location and quantum of development will be articulated within thDevelo entpm Plan Document.

Develo ent planned. A pm within the above areas will be required to be comprehensively range of other uses and infrastructure (including off-site infrastructure), having regard to the requi ments of the Core Strategy, will be required to be developed and implemented in a retimely manner alongside housing. Appendix H1 outlines the infrastructure that will be required for each residential area, and should be read in conjunction with Policy CLT1.

The C tain a flexible approach with regards to the timing of the release of land ouncil will mainfor residential development to ensure a constant five-year supply of land.

Extension to residential envelopes post-2021

would not be appropriate.

4.26 In considering the general development locations for post-2021 development, the same issues as for Policy H2 above have been considered, but areas identified for post 2021 development may not be immediately deliverable, or the situation vis-à-vis infrastructure and the impact on existing communities is such that their delivery earlier



4.27 The figures, with an annual average of 250 units, meet the East of England Plan’s minimum in the period 2021-2025 and do not make allowance for any contributithrough windfall. The figures are approximates at this stage. The e

on xact figures will

4.28 in the areas outlined in Policy H3 will have to conform to the other

policies within the Core Strategy.

ntial development may be allocated within the general locations prior to 2021 in the event that additional housing

in consultation with NE, EA and Essex and Suffolk Water, development proposals must ensure that the water supply necessary fo evelopment can be supplied sus ithout cts o European Sites).

need to be determined through the Allocations Development Plan Document process or, where appropriate, Area Action Plans at a later date.

As with the pre-2021 development areas, it is important to note that development coming forward with

4.29 The Council will monitor the provision of housing and reside

land is required.

4.30 In line with the Habitats Regulations and

r the d tainably (and w adverse effe n

Policy H3 – Extension to residential envelopes post-2021

Post-202 al envelope of existing settlements will be extended in the following 1, the residentiareas (as Key Diagram) to deliver the following approximate number of units indicated on thepost-202 e, Green Belt land within areas will be safegu1. Prior to this tim such arded with the exceptio r Policy H2. n of release as pe

Area Dwelling post-2021

South East Ashingdon 500

South West Hullbridge 250

West Great Wakering 250

Total 1000

The detailed location and quantum of development will be articulated within the Allocations Development Plan Document.

Development within the above areas will be required to be comprehensively planned. A range of other uses and infrastructure (including off-site infrastructure), having regard to the requirements of the Core Strategy, will be required to be developed and implemented in a timely manner alongside housing. Appendix H1 outlines the infrastructure that will be required for each residential area, and should be read in conjunction with Policy CLT1.

The Council will monitor the supply and development of housing in the District and may bring forward development in these locations prior to 2021 if required to meet East of England Plan requirements, but only if infrastructure to serve such developments is also brought forward earlier.

4.31 Policies H1, H2 and H3 will deliver housing supply as illustrated in Appendix H2.



Affordable Housing

Affordable housing is defined in Planning Policy Statement 3 – Housing (PPS3) as follows:

4.32

“Affordable housing includes social rented, affordable rented and intermediate

eholds including availability at a cost low enough for them to afford, determined with regard to local incomes and local house prices.

rdable housing provision.

t als set out in the Three Year Review of Rent Restructuring (July

2004) were implemented as policy in April 2006. It may also include rented housing r equivalent rental

arrangements to the above, as agreed with the local authority or with the Homes and

providers of social housing to households who are eligible for social rented housing. Affordable Rent is not subject to the national rent regime but is subject to other rent controls th ore than 80 per cent of the local market rent. Intermediat : Housing at prices and rents above those of social rent, but below market price or rents, and w t out above. The n include shared equity products (e.g. HomeBuy), other low cost homes for sale and intermediate rent but does not include affordable rented housing.”

ble housing within Rochford District, equating to 131 net al

housing, provided to eligible households whose needs are not met by the market. Affordable housing should: – Meet the needs of eligible hous

– Include provision for the home to remain at an affordable price for future eligible households or, if these restrictions are lifted, for the subsidy to be recycled for alternative affo

Social rented housing is: Rented housing owned and managed by local authorities and registered social landlords, for which guideline target rents are determined through the national renregime. The propos

owned or managed by other persons and provided unde

Communities Agency as a condition of grant. Affordable rented housing is: Rented housing let by registered

at require a rent of no m

e affordable housing is

hich meet the criteria se se ca

4.33 The Thames Gateway South Essex Strategic Housing Market Assessment identified an acute need for affordaadditional affordable dwellings per year. This amounts to 52% of Rochford’s annutarget. However, it is important that viability is considered – the Council recognises the need to set a requirement that is economically viable. As such, 35%, being the indicative aim for the region as a whole as set out in the East of England Plan is considered appropriate as a local requirement.

4.34 The Council’s Housing Strategy (2009) acknowledges the severity of the need for affordable housing in the District and one of its key priorities is to maximise the provision of affordable housing through the planning system. The 2009 Housing Strategy’s action plan includes the aim to achieve 35% affordable housing on future development sites.



4.35 The Council recognother form of planning obligations

ises the need to ensure that affordable housing policies, or any , do not place an undue financial burden on

e housing will vary depending on the market conditions at any given time. As such, the Council will continue to monitor the 35% target and may relax this

sively

developers such to prevent the delivery of development. The economic viability of affordabl

requirement in specific cases where developers are able to demonstrate concluthat for a particular development site the target is unachievable.

Policy H4 – Affordable Housing

At least 35% of dwellings on all developments of 15 or more units, or on sites greater than 0.5 hectar ll es, shall be affordable. These affordable dwellings shall be tenure-blind and weintegra d ments such that they are spread (“pepper te into the layout of new residential developpotted ents, whilst having regard to the management ”) throughout larger developmrequirements of Registered Social Landlords.

The Council will aim for 80 percent of affordable housing to be social housing, 20 percent interm e ediate housing. The Council will constantly review the affordable housing needs of thDistrict and developers should consult with the Council’s Housing Strategy team to ensure their proposals meet the Council’s needs before submitting planning applications.

The re ng may be relaxed, for example where quirement for the provision of affordable housiconstraints make on-site provision impossible or where the developer is able to demonstrate that 35 unviable, rendering the site undeliverable. In such % provision will be economicallycases the Council will negotiate the proportion of affordable dwellings based on the economic viability calculations. It is expected that affordable housing will be provided on each development site; in rare cases, taking account of particular site characteristics, the affordable housing contribution may be provided by way of a commuted sum towards off-site affordable housing.

Dwel

4.36 rict has tended to have been dominated

d

4.37

ortion of these are existing older

4.38 s and

ary to keep the District’s housing need under constant review.

ling Types

Historically, the mix of house types in the Distby larger houses at the higher end of the market. Whilst this has contributed to the character of the District as it is today, the concern is that if such a pattern were to continue it would not meet the needs of the whole community, particularly as the trenis for smaller household sizes due to social and demographic changes.

The Strategic Housing Market Assessment for Thames Gateway South Essex notesthat although the majority of household demand growth is expected to result fromincreasing single person households, a high prophouseholds who already have housing and are unlikely to downsize.

However, there is a high demand locally for three-bedroom properties for familieit should be noted that the demand for house types can change over relatively short periods of time due to a variety of circumstances, and may vary across the District. As such it is necess



4.39 It is important that a mix of house types is provided on larger sites coming forward todeliver mixed communities, as opposed to developments which cater entirely fone demographic group.

or only

Policy H5 – Dwelling Types

New d cater for all people evelopments must contain a mix of dwelling types to ensure they within the community, whatever their housing needs. The development of both affordable and market housing should have regard to local need. Developers should consult with the Council’s Housing Strategy team in order to determine the required mix of house types prior to submitting planning applications.

A proportion of the affordable housing provision within developments will be required to be in the form of three-bedroom or larger dwellings.

4.40 The housing allocation for Rochford District is based on meeting the current and futu

needs of the local population, but the development to meet this need must be sustainable not just socially, but also environmentally. The environmental issues that will apply to new housing, in addition to other forms of development are set out in theEnvironmental Issues chapter of this document. Character is also importa

re

nt and is

eds

s are homes designed for people to remain in for as much of their life as o this end are adaptable to the differing needs of different stages of their

ple.

gh to

4.44

circumstances can change. As such it would not be appropriate for only a proportion of new housing development to be flexible to meet people’s changing circumstances.

discussed in the Character of Place section.

Lifetime Homes

4.41 As acknowledged in the Sustainable Community Strategy, the need to meet the neof an ageing population is, whilst not unique to Rochford, particular prevalent in theDistrict. Furthermore, the issue is particularly pertinent to the subject of housing provision. It is important that housing is designed to be flexible to changes in people’s circumstances.

4.42 Lifetime homepossible and tlife cycle. Building Regulations now require new dwellings to have access and facilities for disabled people and in being so designed they are expected to help people with reducing mobility to remain longer in their homes. The Lifetimes Homes Standard promoted by the Joseph Rowntree Foundation goes further to provide housing that is more flexible and adaptable than that required by Part M of the Building Regulations and so are more suitable for older and disabled peo

4.43 By requiring homes to meet the Lifetime Homes Standard the Council are not simply applying a “one size fits all” approach, or forcing all homes to be the same – the Lifetime Homes Standard is about ensuring homes can be easily adapted to meet changing needs, for example, by having staircases that are wide enouaccommodate a chairlift, or doorways wide enough for wheelchairs.

Lifetime Homes are suitable for people throughout their lives and by ensuring that homes meet this standard, residents will be able to remain independent as they get older, or develop physical disabilities. All residents will age and anyone’s



4.45 It is little more difficult at the design stage to achieve the Lifetime Homes Standard over the requirements of the Building Regulations, and whilst it may be more expensive to implement, costs should reduce as the standard becomes widely accepted.

ic Needs Assessment notes that many older people living in

r standard accommodation. In addition to the Lifetime

4.46 The Essex Joint StrategEssex cannot afford to adapt their home to meet their needs, or to keep it in a good state of repair. Such a situation has the potential to worsen given that the populationis ageing, and highlights the importance of the Lifetime Homes Standard.

4.47 Lifetime Homes are not specifically properties for people with mobility problems and are not necessarily wheelchaiHomes Standard, it is important that a proportion of housing be wheelchair accessible so as to ensure new developments are socially inclusive.

Polic H6 – Lifetime Homes y

All new housing developments will be required to comply with the Lifetime Homes Standard.

In addition, at least 3% of new dwellings on developments of 30 dwellings or more will be required to be built to full wheelchair accessibility standards. In the case of developments compr dwelling will be expected to be built to ising between 10 and 30 dwellings, at least onefull wheelchair accessibility standards.

In the case of both the Lifetime Homes Standard and the wheelchair accessibility requirements, exceptions may be made and a lower proportion of units accepted where such a requirement can be shown to threaten the viability of a particular development.

Gyps r Accommodation

ssex.

4.49 sy

y and Travelle

4.48 Planning must meet the accommodation needs of all communities, including Gypsies and Travellers. The need and demand for Gypsy and Traveller sites in the District has, historically, been very low, especially when compared with other areas of EHowever, even this low demand has not been met in the past.

The East of England Regional Assembly has prepared a single-issue review on Gypand Travellers accommodation that equates to the allocation of an additional 15pitches to be provided in Rochford District by 2018 to meet the 3% compound increase requirements beyond 2011.

4.50 Given the historically low demand within the District, provision for any additional pitches post 2018 will be subject to further review of need.



Policy H7 – Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation

The Council will allocate 15 pitches by 2018, as per the East of England Regional Assembly’s single-issue review.

In allocating pitches the Council will examine the potential of current unauthorised sites to meet t his need and will consider granting them planning consent subject to advice in Circular1/2006 – Planning for Gypsy and Traveller Caravan Sites. Sites will be allocated in the west of the g sites District, where transport links and access to services are better. In allocatinconsideration will include:

• The promotion of peaceful and integrated co-existence between the site and the local community;

• The wider benefits of easier access to GP and other health services;

• Children attending school on a regular basis;

• The provision of a settled base that reduces the need for long-distance travelling and possible environmental damage caused by unauthorised encampment on alternative sites; and

• The need to direct sites away from areas at high risk of flooding, including functional floodplains, given the particular vulnerability of caravans



Appendix H1

Location New Infrastructure and Services to Accompany Residential Development

North of London Road, Rayleigh

• New primary school • Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvements • Public transport infrastructure improvements and service

enhancements, including link between Rawreth Lane and London Road

environment and A1245

• Link and enhancements to local pedestrian/cycling and bridleway network

• Link to Green Grid Greenway No. 13 • Public park land to provide buffer between the built

• Youth and community facilities• Play space • Sustainable drainage systems

West Rochford

ents • Public transport infrastructure improvements and service

enhancements • Link and enhancements to local pedestrian/cycling and

bridleway network • Enhanced pedestrian access to town centre • Hall Road junction improvements • Sustainable drainage systems • Public open space • Play space • Youth facilities and community facilities • Link to cycle network

• New primary school with commensurate early years and childcare provision

• Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvem

West Hockley • Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvements • Public transport infrastructure improvements and service


bridleway network • Sustainable drainage systems • Public open space • Play space • Link to cycle network




South Hawkwell • Local high ents • Public transport infrastructure improvements and service

• •

• ovements

way capacity and infrastructure improvem


bridleway network Sustainable drainage systems Play space

• Link to cycle network Local highway impr

East Ashingdon rvice

pedestrian/cycling and ork

• Land made available for the expansion of King Edmund School

•

• ure improvements • Public transport infrastructure improvements and se

enhancements

Local highway capacity and infrastruct

• Link and enhancements to localbridleway netw

• Access to King Edmund School

• Sustainable drainage systems Public open space

• Play space • Youth facilities and community facilities

South West Hullbridge ,

and service

edestrian/cycling and

rainage systems

•

• Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvementsincluding improvements to Watery Lane and Watery Lane/Hullbridge Road junction Public transport infrastructure improvements • enhancements

• Link and enhancements to local pbridleway network

• Sustainable d• Public open space • Play space Youth facilities and community facilities • Leisure facilities • Link to cycle network

South Canewdon


rainage systems

• Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvements • Public transport infrastructure improvements and service

enhancements • Link and enhancements to local p

bridleway network • Sustainable d• Play space




South East Ashingdon

edestrian/cycling and ork

ystems

• Play space

• Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvements, including contribution to traffic management of AshingdonRoad

• Public transport infrastructure improvements and serviceenhancements

• Link and enhancements to local pbridleway netw

• Sustainable drainage s• Public open space

• Youth facilities and community facilities

West Great Wakering •


Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvements • Public transport infrastructure improvements and service

enhancements • Link and enhancements to local p

bridleway network • Sustainable drainage systems • Public open space • Play space • Youth facilities and community facilities

Rawreth Industrial Estate

• Contribution towards new primary school within North of London Road, Rayleigh residential development Public transport infrastructure im• provements and service

• ements to local pedestrian/cycling and

• and play space

city and infrastructure improvements

enhancements Link and enhancbridleway network Public open space

• Sustainable drainage systems • Local highway capa




Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate

ice

n space − Landscaping and street furniture

g

ly years and childcare facility

s

• Contribution towards Hockley centre regeneration to be determined through development of Area Action Plan, including: − Public transport infrastructure improvements and serv

enhancements − Healthcare facilities − Public ope

− Pedestrian links between centre and train station, linkinresidential development to both

− Ear− Youth and community facilities − Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvements,

including Spa Road/Main Road junction improvement

Stambridge Mills astructure improvements and service

s an/cycling and

• ce

• Flood defence • Public transport infr

enhancement• Link and enhancements to local pedestri

bridleway network • Sustainable drainage systems • Local highway capacity and infrastructure improvements

Public open spa• Play space

Star Lane Industrial Estate

tructure improvements astructure improvements and service

ncements to local pedestrian/cycling and

• nd community facilities

• Local highway capacity and infras• Public transport infr

enhancements • Link and enha

bridleway network • Sustainable drainage systems • Public open space • Play space

Youth facilities a



Housing Trajectory - Period - 2021

129

197

58

449

69

11 106

91

25

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

500

2001

/0220

02/03

2003

/0420

04/05

2005

/

2006

/

2008

/920 20

10/11

201

2 320

13

520

15/16

20 2017

/1820

18/19

2020

Year

Net

Dw

ellin

gs

2001

165

262

06

1

007/8

4

09/10

229

1/1

351

2012

/1

3

200/14

2014

/1

265

210

16/17

275

311

230

2019

/20

265

2

/21072

Actual completions

Projected annual completions (sitebased)

RSye

S allars

ocation 20annualised over

Appendix H2

Housing trajectory 2001-2021 from combination of Policies H1and H2



Housing trajectory 2021 to 2025 from Policy H3

250 250 250 250

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

2021

-2022

2022

-2023

2023

-2024

2024

-2025

Year

Net

dw

ellin

gs

Projected completions

Annualisedrequirement



Breakdown of 2001-2021 housing trajectory by source

Net dwelling completions Source 2006-

07 2007-

08 2008-

09 2009-

10 2010-

11 2011-

12 2012-

13 2013-

14 2014-

15 2015-

16 2016-

17 2017-

18 2018-

19 2019-

20 2020-

21

Actual Completions 2006-2008 449 169 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Extant permissions - - 104 106 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Redevelopment of identified employment allocations

- - 0 0 125 125 0 0 75 50 50 100 80 115 75

Other appropriate sites identified in SHLAA

0 0 - - 10 0 104 101 41 0 90 0 0 36 0

Extensions to residential envelopes - - 0 0 0 125 350 200 100 160 225 175 150 150 150

All dwelling completions post-2021 from extensions to residential e

nvelopes.



5 Character of Place

Vision

Short Term

• The Council has adopted a Local List which has afforded additional protection to locally significant buildings.

• Work has begun on implementing the Conservation Area Management Plans which is having a positive impact on the character and appearance of the District’s Conservation Areas.

Medium/Long Term

• The District’s distinctive character and historical built environment has been retained.

• Ne a en leme whDistrict’s character.

Objectiv

1. To ensure that new development respect and make a positive contribution towards the bui e

2. To support and enhance the local built heritage.

w de

es

lt en

velopment h s be imp nted ich contributes positively towards the

vironm nt.



Introduction

5.1 Thco

e District has a distinctive character which is worthy of protection. The Council is mmitted to both maintaining and enhancing environmental quality in the District.

elopment will be expected to make a positive contribution to this character

people want to live, work and relax.

pment process. PPS3 – Housing, also emphasises the places, streets and spaces which meet the needs of people, are

visually attractive, safe, accessible, functional, inclusive, have their own distinctive

standards new build in all circumstances, including in respect of the location, siting, e

ere appropriate, improvement of the character of the area in which it is proposed. Tree planting and landscaping schemes using native species

te to their location will be an important part of new development.

5.4 Rochford District has a unique character and appearance, much of which stems from ns and villages. However, more

recently the adoption of modern standardised building materials and building design has, in some cases, begun to erode the character of the District. This trend must not be allowed to continue. The Council aims to follow the principles of good urban design set out in national policies and ensure the design of all new and existing development is consistent with the local character.

5.5 Design will be expected to enhance local identity by being sympathetic to local needs and by building on local opportunities. In addition, good design can encourage community cohesion by designing out crime and anti-social behaviour, and reducing inequalities. With regards to corporate identities, and in-house building styles, they will be expected to be adapted to the local setting and should respect local character.

5.6 The Council will encourage and support the production of Village Design Statements for settlements in the District. These are community-led guidance documents outlining the distinct character of villages and their proposed future development from a local perspective. Design Statements will encourage community ownership and inform planners, designers and developers of sustainable opportunities for village enhancement.

5.7 Promoting good design may sometimes conflict with other aims, for example, promoting renewable energy. While promoting the development of small-scale renewable energy projects, the Council will ensure the location, scale, design and other factors are carefully considered.

5.2 All new devand be of high quality design. Quality of design is important everywhere within theDistrict. It is essential in producing attractive, vibrant, sustainable places, in which

5.3 Government policy contained in Planning Policy Statement 1 (PPS1) – Delivering sustainable development, makes it clear that good design should be the aim of all those involved in the develoneed to create

identity and maintain and improve local character. The Council will encourage high

design and materials used, as well as ensuring that the proposal will contribute to thenhancement or, wh

appropria

Design

the traditional buildings that still dominate the tow



5.8 The CounDesign) and SPD 7 (Design, Landscaping

cil has adopted Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) 2 (Housing and Access Statement) which provide

detailed guidance on how good design can be achieved. The Essex Design Guide and Urban Place Supplement also provide guidance on delivering good design.

Poli CP1 – Design cy

The C ouncil will promote good, high quality design that has regard to local flavour throughthe use of the adopted Supplementary Planning Documents and the positive contribution of Village Design Statements. The Essex Design Guide and Urban Place Supplement SPDs will help provide guidance without being overly prescriptive.

Developers of large residential schemes will be required to produce and adhere to design briefs, which reflect the local characteristics and distinctiveness of the development area.

Liste

5.9 gs, ir

r and appearance of a Conservation Areas. The Planning (Listed Buildings and

servation Areas) Act 1990 provides specific protection for buildings and areas of special architectural or historic interest.

Listed

5.10 and

carry out any internal or external alterations that affect their character.

5.11 s and

Sched

SE of Butler’s Gate, Sutton

• Rochford Hall (uninhabited portions), Rochford

d Buildings, Scheduled Monuments and Conservation Areas

Good design is crucial when considering proposals that may affect historic buildinespecially those that are listed due to their architectural interest, protected due to thearchaeological or historical status, or their contribution towards the characte

Con

Buildings

Buildings are listed to help protect the physical evidence of our past, including buildings which are valued and protected as a central part of our cultural heritageour sense of identity. Hence, these buildings have statutory protection and ListedBuilding consent is needed for their demolition, or to

The Council will support the national policies that seek to protect Listed Buildingpay particular attention to retaining their character.

uled Monuments

5.12 Scheduled Monuments are archaeological or historical sites which are of national importance and protected under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979. There are five Scheduled Monuments in the District which are:

• Plumberow Mount, Hockley

• Heavy Anti-aircraft gun site, 380m

• Romano-British burial site on Foulness Island, Foulness

• Rayleigh Castle, Rayleigh



Conservation Areas

Conservation Areas are ‘Areas of Special Architectural or Historic Interest, the character or appearance of which it is desirable to preserve or enhance’ (Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990). They have been designated

5.13

to preserve and enhance the character of a whole area. These areas are afforded

ion and in addition often contain many Listed Buildings. statutory protect

5.14 The Conservation Areas within the District are as listed below.

Conservation Areas

Battlesbridge

Canewdon Church

Canewdon High Street

Foulness Churchend

Great Wakering

Paglesham Churchend

Paglesham Eastend

Rayleigh

Rochford

Shopland Churchyard 5.15 Many of the high quality built environments of the District have been designated

Conservation Areas. These areas have a distinctive character and the Council has adopted Conservation Area Appraisals and Management Plans for the District’s ten Conservation Areas. These Appraisals and Management plans detail the character of the Conservation Areas, assess their quality, and the proposed actions to be undertaken to ensure their protection and enhancement

as

.

lition of unlisted to trees. However it does not prevent all change and the area

) that will affect their character and

anagement

Plans.

5.16 Designation of a Conservation Area extends planning controls over certain types of development, including extensions, boundary treatments, the demobuildings and worksmay be subject to pressures (good and badappearance. The Council will preserve the special character of the Conservation Areas and to promote good design through implementing SPD6 – Design guidelinesfor Conservation Areas, as well as the Conservation Area Appraisal and M

Policy CP2 – Conservation Areas

The Council w recommended in the ill work closely with its partners to implement the actions adopte Con have regard to the d servation Area Appraisal and Management Plans and will advice in the CAAs and adopted SPDs when considering proposals for development within Conse tionrva Areas.



Local Lists

5.17 The Council believes that many buildings in the District, despite not being listed, arelocal distinctiveness and form part of a familiar and cherished local scene.

The Council dropped the Local List during the preparation of the Rochford DistricReplacement Local Plan, but more recent guidance (Review of Heritage

of

5.18 t Protection:

1st Century (2007) DCMS) suggests that these lists do have a valuable role. There is now positive encouragement from the government through the recent White Paper for the preparation of such lists and the Council will ct.

5.19 Although there is no statut ildings included on Local Lists (except those in Conservation Areas), the Council unsympathetic alteration or changes which would diminish the architectural, historic or townscape value of these

5.20 The Council will not approve any unsympathetic alterations, including replacement of traditional windows or alte adding, to buildings included in the Local List – specific design guidance and advManagement Developmen appropriate SPDs.

the way forward (2004) DCMS and Heritage Protection for the 2

reintroduce such a list for the Distri

ory protection for buwill encourage owners to avoid demolition,

buildings.

rations to the external clice will be included in the Development

t Plan Document and

Policy CP3 – Local List

The Local List SPD will give prot with special architectural and ection to local buildingshistoric value.



6 The Green Belt

•

• y

Mediu

• Green tourism initiatives have been developed which provide sustainable al businesses whilst maintaining a high quality environment. These ouraged small-scale tourism projects sensitive to the local

ate

• Acceptance of greater flexibility towards rural diversification has resulted in the development of a number of bed and breakfasts and hotels, facilitating stays in the countryside for visitors to the area.

• The first phase of sustainable urban extensions to meet the District’s housing needs over the plan period have been implemented. A small area of the District’s Green Belt has been reallocated for employment use in order to facilitate the creation of new jobs which meet the population’s needs and contribute towards the District’s economy.

Long Term

• The Green Belt remains predominantly undeveloped and open in character.

• Rochford District continues to be recognised as the green part of the Thames Gateway.

• The second phase of sustainable urban extensions is completed.

• Rochford is recognised as a tourist destination, with good access to the rivers and waterways and many visitors to the nationally recognised wetlands at Wallasea.

Vision

Short Term

The openness and character of the Rochford Green Belt continues to be protected, though small areas next to settlements have been released for development.

Existing businesses in the Green Belt which are important to the local economcontinue to be supported.

• Redevelopment of unattractive buildings in Battlesbridge Conservation Area is taking place, enhancing the character and appearance of the Conservation Area whilst respecting the objectives of the Green Belt.

• A number of rural buildings have been converted to enable and support green tourism projects and rural diversification.

m Term

opportunities for rurinitiatives have encenvironment which help to sustain the rural economy without contributing to climchange.



Objectives

1. Continue to protect the openness and character of the District’s Green Belt.

the minimum amount of Green Belt is allocated to meet the District’s housing ployment needs, and that extensions to the residential envelope are in

t

on

2. Ensureand emsustainable locations, which retain the individual identities of settlements and prevencoalescence.

3. Ensure existing lawful businesses in the Green Belt are able to continue to functiand contribute to the local economy, as appropriate, having regard to the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.

4. Ensure appropriate forms of diversification are encouraged to support the local rural economy and help achieve the vision of developing green tourism in the District.



Introduction

es that Rochford District will continue to be the green part of the Thames Gateway. National

en Belt

• To check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;

• To assist in safeguarding the countryside from encroachment;

• To assist in urban regeneration, by encouraging the recycling of derelict and other urban land.

6.2 PPG2 also states that development should not be permitted in the Green Belt unless it is for any of the following purposes:

• Agriculture and Forestry (unless Permitted Development Rights withdrawn);

• Essential facilities for outdoor sport and outdoor recreation, for cemeteries, and for other uses of land which preserve the openness of the Green Belt and which do not conflict with the purposes of including land in it;

• Limited extension, alteration or replacement of existing dwellings;

• Limited infilling in existing villages, and limited affordable housing for local community needs under development plan policies according with PPS3; and

• Limited infilling or redevelopment of major existing developed sites identified in adopted local plans (see Annex C of PPG2 for further details).

6.3 Policy SS7 of the East of England Plan states that the regional Green Belt boundary is appropriate and should be maintained. However, Rochford District is part of the Thames Gateway Sub-Region and the East of England Plan recognises that local strategic revisions to the Green Belt boundary may be necessary to meet local development needs in sustainable locations. As such a small proportion of the District’s12,763 hectares of designated Green Belt land will be reallocated to meet local housing and employment needs.

Protection of the Green Belt

6.4 The application of Green Belt policy has helped protect the historic fabric of the District; prevent encroachment of development into the countryside; protect natural features, flora, fauna and their habitats; and safeguard the countryside to provide recreational opportunities.

6.1 The District’s land mass is predominantly Green Belt, and the Council envisag

policy on the Green Belt is contained within Planning Policy Guidance Note 2 – GreenBelts (PPG2). This states that the five purposes of including land within the Greare as follows:

• To prevent neighbouring towns from merging into one another;

• To preserve the setting and special character of historic towns; and



6.5 The Councrural areas to existing urban areas can al

il recognises that diverting development and population growth away from so assist in achieving sustainability

6.6

ever, a small proportion of the District’s Green Belt will have to have its designation reviewed to allow the development of additional housing and business

ommodate further development within existing settlements. Previous community involvement exercises

he protection of the Green Belt to be very important, as does national and regional policy. The Council

released is the minimum necessary for the purposes of housing and employment growth by

n Belt release is unavoidable, ensuring that developments occur at a reasonably high

elt land to velopment will be dependent on the Allocations

6.7 ily

Green nd is less w ree to which

lt when

6.8 emplo

the Gr

ic

rural

6.10 District, however, must have regard to the with the aim of protecting and enhancing the diversity

e countryside.

such,

of ric interest.

objectives.

The Council will continue to support the principles of restricting development in the Green Belt, as set out in PPG2, and will preserve the character and openness of the Green Belt. How

premises, taking account of the very limited opportunities to acc

have made it clear to the Council that the District’s residents consider t

acknowledge this, and will ensure that the amount of Green Belt land

prioritising land outside of the Green Belt for development, and, where Gree

density to limit the amount of Green Belt land that is lost. The exact area of Green B be allocated for de

Development Plan Document, however, the policies within the Core Strategy will ensure that in the region of 99 percent of the District’s Green Belt remains as such.

The term ‘Green Belt’ refers to a planning designation and is not necessarily a description of quality of the land. Land designated as Green Belt can include, primarfor historical reasons, developed land and brownfield sites. As such, whilst it is considered that all land currently designated as Green Belt helps achieve the five

Belt purposes as set out in PPG2, to at least a degree, some Green Belt laorthy of continued protection. The Council will examine the deg

current Green Belt land is helping to achieve the purposes of the Green Beconsidering reallocating the land.

Appropriate Green Belt locations have the potential to accommodate small-scale yment and recreation opportunities in the countryside, in the form of rural

diversification. The Council supports the development and growth of rural diversification and the protection and enhancement of existing rural businesses within

een Belt, which would benefit the local economy.

6.9 The Council will continue a restrictive policy towards employment growth in the Green Belt, though this will need to be balanced against local employment needs, economviability and the businesses impact on the objectives of the Green Belt, through its activities and potential traffic generation for example. The conversion of existingbuildings for small-scale employment uses will be promoted as far as practicable.

The overall strategic development of thedifferent landscape charactersand local distinctiveness of th

6.11 Several of the District’s Conservation Areas reside within the Green Belt, and asthe Council consider it appropriate to support limited redevelopment within these areas to enhance the value and appearance of the Conservation Areas, which arespecial architectural or histo



Policy GB1 – Green Belt Protection

The Council will allocate the minimum amount of Green Belt land necessary to meet the District’s housing and employment needs. In doing so, particular consideration will be given to the need to prevent the coalescence of individual settlements, in order to help preserve their identities.

The C ill ouncil will direct development away from the Green Belt as far as practicable and wprioritise the protection of Green Belt land based on how well the land helps achieve the purposes of the Green Belt. Rural diversification and the continuation of existing rural businesses will be encouraged, as appropriate, so long as such activities do not significantly undermine the objectives or character of the Green Belt.

Rural

6.12 d

its

racter ry

6.13 imental impact on the objectives of the Green Belt.

Existing rural buildings already have an impact on the Green Belt, in particular its rural

r d

r recreation and leisure activities which are considered appropriate rural uses and would not have a

6.14 activities that can be promoted within the Green Belt. Such activities must be sensitive

nd

Acceptable forms of green tourism on open areas of land include outdoor recreation and leisure activities such as bird

to protect the character and openness of the Green Belt against supporting and enhancing the local rural economy.

Diversification and Recreational Uses

Whilst the District is predominantly Green Belt, only 3% of its VAT registerebusinesses are agricultural – less than the regional and national averages. It is recognised that diversification into other forms of economic activity is necessary if rural enterprises are to remain viable. There is concern that the current restrictive approach to development in the Green Belt will not allow the Council to achievevision of green tourism developing in the District and may hinder rural diversification. However, any over relaxation of Green Belt policies would be harmful to the chaof the Green Belt, undermine the purposes of including land within it, and be contrato sustainability objectives. A balance needs to be struck.

The Council consider a number of activities within the Green Belt to be appropriate and would not have an undue detr

openness, and so the Council feel it is appropriate in the interests of encouraging economic sustainability to encourage the conversion of existing rural buildings fosmall-scale employment uses. The conversion of rural buildings for bed anbreakfasts/small-scale hotels, where appropriate, is also considered appropriate as it would help to realise green tourism in the District. Outdoo

detrimental impact on the Green Belt are also encouraged. However, the Council will seek to restrict the agglomeration of similar businesses (for example bed and breakfasts/small-scale hotels) to protect the character of the countryside.

Green tourism is a sustainable form of tourism which encompasses small-scale

to the local environment, have minimal impact on the objectives of the Green Belt, abe sustainable in terms of stimulating and supporting rural economic growth and encouraging diversification of rural activities.

watching, small-scale fishing lakes, cycling, walking and rambling. Designated areas where green tourism will take place include Wallasea Island and Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park, although it may take place throughout the countryside in appropriate locations, balancing the need



6.15 Equestrian facilities and playing pitches, in particular, are appropriate activities in the ional guidance, which the Council support. Large er, are not considered an appropriate form of green

d

within the District.

Green Belt as encouraged in natscale equestrian facilities, howevtourism because they have the potential to significantly impact on the openness ancharacter of the Green Belt. Equestrian facilities for leisure and outdoor recreation purposes as a suitable form of rural diversification will be encouraged in appropriatelocations

Policy GB2 – Rural Diversification and Recreational Uses

The Council will maintain a restrictive approach to development within the Green Belt, but with some relaxation for rural diversification. Forms of rural diversification that may be considered acceptable in appropriate circumstances in the Green Belt include:

• Conversion of existing buildings for small-scale employment use;

• Green tourism which is small-scale and sensitive to the local natural environment (e.g. walking or bird watching);

• Conversion of buildings to bed and breakfasts/small-scale hotels; and

• Outdoor recreation and leisure activities.

In considering proposals for the above, issues pertaining to the purposes of the Green Belt and wider sustainability issues will be assessed, but the Council will make allowances for the fact th . at public transport is limited within rural areas of the District

Retail (with the exception of farm shops) and residential development are not considered acceptable forms of rural diversification in the Green Belt.

The Green Belt provides leisure opportunities for the District’s residents and visitors. Development that is essential for outdoor sport and recreation activities considered approp be riate in the Green Belt (e.g. changing rooms connected with a sports use) willpermitted. Such essential facilities will be expected to have a minimal impact on the openness of the Green Belt.



7 Upper Roach Valley and Wallasea Island

n

Term

Cherry Orchard Jubilee Coun

Visio

Short

• try Park has been expanded to the east and west and access from Cherry Orchard link road, including improved footpath and cycle access

a ersity.

•

r creaWoods.

Objectives

1. To create additional inf paces in the Upper Roach

2. To ensure the delivery of the Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project in an ecologically

has been implemented.

Medium/Long Term

• The Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project has been implemented and has createdspace for bird watching and other recreation, whilst also enhancing biodiv

The Upper Roach Valley has become a vast ‘green lung’ surrounded by Southend, Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford and provides a substantial informal area ofe tion, with green links between Cherry Orchard Country Park and Hockley

ormal, high quality recreational sValley which is accessible to local residents, whilst ensuring the protection and enhancement of biodiversity.

sensitive manner which provides recreation opportunities whilst enhancing biodiversity.



Upper Roach Valley

7.1 Thsp

e Upper Roach Valley, including the area around Hockley Woods, is an area with ecial landscape characteristics. In the Rochford District Replacement Local Plan

the area is designated as a Special Landscape Area and as an Area of Ancient rvey work carried out by Essex County

7.2 s a large ‘green lung’ bounded by Rayleigh, Hockley, esents an opportunity to provide informal

ce accessible to local residents. Parts of the Upper Roach Valley are already well utilised, such as Hockley Woods and the recently established Cherry

7.3 There are fourteen ancient woodlands in the District and seven of them lie within the

f wildlife

7.4 The need for more informal recreational space in South East Essex has been d on numerous occasions over a number of years, including in the 1982 and ructure Plans and the 2005 Thames Gateway South Essex Greengrid

7.5 began on the Country Park in 2002 and the park

rk d flora to

utilising the existing features of the landscape, all with the minimum of human interference.

7.6 The Upper Roach Valley represents an opportunity to provide recreational activities in close proximity to the main residential settlements of the District, as well as Southend. The Council is carrying out works to improve access to the Country Park and will implement improved access and car-parking facilities in a manner that minimises the impact on the landscape. This provides an opportunity to link this area with the wider green infrastructure network and improve access to the countryside from surrounding areas.

7.7 To the north-west of the Country Park lies Hockley Woods – and to the south-west of Hockley Woods is an area designated as a special and historic landscape area. Currently these areas are not connected, but there is potential to do so to enhance informal recreational opportunities. Sustainable access to these areas (for example linked cycling networks) will be encouraged. These will also be used to provide wildlife networks, thus avoiding fragmentation of habitats.

(2006)Landscape. These designations arose from suCouncil.

The Upper Roach Valley iRochford and Southend. As such, it reprrecreational spa

Orchard Jubilee Country Park.

Upper Roach Valley, south of the head of the valley formed by the railway line. The area’s importance to biodiversity is reflected in the designation of a number osites within the Upper Roach Valley.

identifie2001 StStrategy.

The Council has sought to help address this need through the establishment of Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park. Work has been gradually expanded. The approach to the development of the Country Pais centred on ensuring the right conditions are in place in order for fauna anflourish, and



Policy URV1 – Upper Roach Valley

The C ouncil will strive to see the Upper Roach Valley become a vast ‘green lung’ providinginformal recreational opportunities for local residents. The Council will protect the area from development which would undermine this aim and will continue the approach of creating the right conditions for flora and fauna to flourish, with the minimum of interference.

Access through the Upper Roach Valley and any essential development will be designed so as to have the minimum impact on the landscape and wildlife.

The C ase ouncil will expand Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park, through compulsory purchwhere ith other parts of the Upper Roach Valley, effectively necessary, and will create links wcreating a single, vast informal recreational area. Links will include a network of footpaths, cyclepaths and bridleways that connect areas within the Upper Roach Valley and residential areas, whilst being located and designed so as to not adversely affect the landscape and wildlife.

7.8 rism as well as ecological, benefits. This project is adjacent to the recently

realigned coast of Wallasea Island and involves the RSPB working in partnership with

7.10

detrimental to ecological and environmental interests, particularly given that the area is part of the Natura 2000 network.

Wallasea Island

The RSPB’s proposed Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project has potential for touand leisure,

the Environment Agency and Crossrail to turn a large area of arable land into an area comprising a plethora of wildlife habitats comprising 133 ha of mudflats, 276 ha of saltmarsh, 76 ha shallow saline lagoons, 11 ha of brackish grazing marsh and 109 ha of pasture. The project also aims to incorporate improved access into the new landscape which will allow visitors to appreciate the area without adversely affectingwildlife.

7.9 At the same time, Essex Marina is located on Wallasea Island and there is potential to further develop waterfront recreation on the Crouch through the provision of additional marina facilities in this area.

Opportunities are somewhat constrained by the lack of accessibility to Wallasea Island, in addition to the need to ensure that any increased levels of human activity are not

Policy URV2 – Wallasea Island

The C ouncil will support the RSPB in delivering the Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project withthe aim of enhancing the biodiversity value of the area.

The Council will also promote recreational use and additional marina facilities in the area, along with access improvements. Such development will be supported provided any adverse ecological impacts are avoided or mitigated for.


Rochford District Council – Local Development Framework Core Strategy Rochford District Council – Local Development Framework Core Strategy


8 Environmental Issues

Vision

t at least Level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.

ting developments are being encouraged.

Local, national and international sites of nature conservation importance are being d and enhanced to improve their biodiveristy and wildlife value.

•

•

• nned

ents are predominantly situated within areas least at risk from flooding.

• New non-residential developments are of a sustainable construction, meeting the re is

Long Term

ecial Scientific Interest has resulted in improvements to

renewable and low carbon sources

Short Term

• New homes are being developed in sustainable locations, all of which mee

• Initiatives to reduce carbon emissions from new and exis

• Local, national and international sites of nature conservation importance are protected.

Medium Term

•increasingly protecte

Conditions have been put into place for wildlife to thrive in the Roach Valley. The area’s size and layout allow for people and wildlife to utilise the space with minimum conflict.

The Coastal Protection Belt continues to be protected from unnecessary development and other potentially detrimental impacts.

Later phases of sustainable extensions to the residential envelope are being plaand have begun to be implemented. These strategically located and planned developm

• New residential developments are carbon-neutral, meeting Code level 6 of the Code for Sustainable Homes.

BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’ as a minimum. The District’s Eco-Enterprise Centa flagship building meeting the BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ and providing a model for other developments to utilise sustainable, carbon-neutral construction.

• The protection of Sites of Spthe percentage of which, by area, are in ‘favourable’ or better condition.

• The proportion of the District’s energy supply fromhas been increased.

• Existing dwellings incorporate renewable energy technologies to reduce their carbon emissions and energy costs.



• New residential and non-residential dof their energy needs from renewable or

evelopments, as appropriate, obtain a proportion low carbon sources produced on-site.

w sustainable dwellings that meet the needs of local people of all social groups are e and integrated into communities.

1.

2. directed away from the Coastal Protection Belt.

ood mitigation measures are implemented velopment ensues.

5.

7. e the growth of renewable energy projects and the integration of on-site

8. in terms of their impact on the environment

9. field

• Nein plac

Objectives

Protect and enhance sites of local, national and international importance and protect the District’s historical and archaeological sites.

Ensure development is

3. Ensure development is away from the areas most at risk from flooding, or where this is unavoidable; ensure that appropriate flbefore de

4. Work with the Environment Agency to maintain the District’s flood defences.

Reduce the impact of new development on flood risk.

6. Increase air quality and decrease the negative impact on the District’s residents.

Encouragrenewable or low carbon energy technologies for new developments, as appropriate.

Ensure new developments are sustainableand resources.

Encourage the remediation of contaminated land to fully utilise the District’s brownsites.



Introduction

8.1 Planning has a key role to play in the protection and enhancement of the District's

cter, agricultural land, wildlife habitats, undeveloped coast and other natural resources are protected and enhanced. In cases

negative impact is unavoidable, the Council will ensure that measures are in place to mitigate any adverse effects.

8.2 Strategy as a whole, and certain specific contributions towards this are set out in this section. Sustainable

l use of

n in the s policies which specifically

,

8.5 Local Wildlife Sites (LoWSs) are areas which, despite their lack of national or international statutory protection, are of significant local wildlife value. In 1992 the UK signed the Convention on Biological Diversity which led to the production of the UK Biodiversity Action Plan. However, it is at the local level where the success of biodiversity lies. The Council carried out a Local Wildlife Sites Review in 2007, which showed that Rochford District contains 39 LoWSs. These are predominantly woodland, but there are also significant areas of grassland, mosaic coastal and freshwater habitat types. The Council will work with key stakeholders to promote designing in wildlife schemes in order to obtain a gain in biodiversity, and ensuring any unavoidable impacts from development are appropriately mitigated against.

Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs)

8.6 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) are designated under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981. SSSIs are the country's very best wildlife and geological sites. Natural England has a duty to provide notification of these sites. The SSSI network includes some of the best semi-natural habitats including ancient woodlands, unimproved grasslands, coastal grazing marshes and other estuarine habitats.

natural resources and the local environment. The Council will endeavour to ensure that the District's landscape, historic chara

where a

Sustainable development is intrinsic to the Core

development requires effective protection of the environment and carefunatural resources. It involves accommodating necessary change whilst maintaining and, where possible, enhancing the quality of the environment for visitors, local residents, and for its own intrinsic value.

8.3 The Council is mindful of the need to address climate change at a local level, and the role that planning has to play in this. Climate change has been a consideratiodevelopment of all policies but this section also includeaddress the issue.

Protection and enhancement of the natural landscape and habitats

8.4 The Council is committed to the protection, promotion and enhancement of biodiversity throughout the District. Biodiversity is the variety of living species on earthincluding well known trees and animals as well as lesser known insects and plants and the habitats that they occupy. It is an essential component of sustainable development.

Local Wildlife Sites (LoWSs)



8.7 There arearound 7% of the country's land area. Over

over 4,000 Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) in England, covering half of these sites, by area, are

ial

to its ancient woodland designation.

es, Maplin

. This

s (salt marsh, intertidal mud, grazing

8.8 e Agreement for SSSIs is to have 95%, by area, in ublic s target,

x d and

efra), Natural England, Chelmsford Borough Council, Maldon District Council and the Crouch Harbour Authority to establish the Crouch and Roach Estuary

edy this situation.

8.9 d the

8.10 order

ndscape and wildlife is properly protected;

internationally important for their wildlife value, and as such are designated as SpecAreas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs) or Ramsar sites. There are three SSSIs within the Rochford District as follows:

(i) Hockley Woods SSSI – A site predominantly owned by the Council. The site is also of national importance due

(ii) Foulness SSSI – This comprises extensive sand-silt flats, saltmarsh, beachgrazing marshes, rough grass and scrubland, covering the areas of Sands, part of Foulness Island plus adjacent creeks, islands and marshesis a site of national and international importance.

(iii) Crouch and Roach Estuaries SSSI – (previously known as River Crouch Marshes). This covers a network of sitemarsh, a fresh water reservoir) including Brandy Hole and Lion Creek, Paglesham Pool, Bridgemarsh Island and marshes near Upper Raypits. This site is of national and international importance.

The Government’s Public Servic‘favourable condition’ by 2010. Only Hockley Woods is currently meeting the PService Agreement target. Foulness only has 87.5% of its habitats meeting thiand the Crouch & Roach Estuaries is in poor condition as it is classified as ‘unfavourable no change’1, or ‘unfavourable declining’2 condition. The site has not been adequately conserved in the past, but the Council is working closely with EsseCounty Council, the Environment Agency, the Department for Environment FooRural Affairs (D

Management Plan to rem

Crouch and Roach

The Roach and Crouch estuaries complex drains into the Outer Thames Estuary between two areas of reclaimed marshes; the Dengie Peninsula to the north anislands of Foulness, Potton, and Wallasea to the south.

The Crouch and Roach Estuary Management Plan has established objectives into strive to ensure the sustainable future of the Crouch and Roach estuaries. Objectives include:

• Have regard to and promote the need for sustainability of the estuary system;

• Seek to ensure that the natural la

vourable no change: The special interest of the SSSI is not being conserved and will not reach a urable condition unless there are changes to the site management or external pressures. The longer tI remains in this condition, the more difficult it will be to achieve recovery.

lining: The special interest of the SSSI is not being conserved. The site condition is

1 Unfafavo he SSS

2 Unfavourable dec becoming progressively worse.



• Seek to ensure sustainable public transport to and from the estuary;

• Encourage eco-tourism through the delivery of a sustainable tourism package;

• Disseminate and deliver information on water quality and raise awareness about improving water and air quality and promote a healthier environment;

• ed.

Specia ot

8.11 RochfoFoulne uaries (classified in 1998).

8.12 deterio

Special Area

8.13 Part of the Essex the whole of the l

Rams

8.14

Histor

historical and archaeological interest in both areas, for example:

e, also mber of important military remains dating from World War I and II

Seek to ensure that the historic environment is conserved and enhanc

l Pr ection Areas (SPAs)

rd District has two sites that have been confirmed as SPAs, they are the ss (classified in 1996) and Crouch and Roach Est

The Council will endeavour to avoid any significant pollution, disturbance to or ration of these designated sites.

s of Conservation (SAC)

Estuaries SAC lies within the District. It coversFoulness and Crouch and Roach Estuaries from the point of the highest astronomicatide out to sea. As such it relates to the seaward part of the coastal zone.

ar Sites (Wetlands of International Importance)

There are two listed Ramsar sites in Rochford District: Foulness and the Crouch and Roach Estuaries. The same sites are also designated as SPAs, under the Natura 2000 network.

ical and Archaeological Sites

8.15 The District contains numerous sites of rural and urban

• There are significant concentrations of prehistoric find spots between the settlements of Ashingdon and Hockley, and Ashingdon itself is an Early Saxon settlement;

• Land to the south of Great Wakering, where brick earth extraction has demonstrated continuous settlement from at least the Middle Bronze Agcontains a nuincluding pillboxes, and anti-aircraft batteries;

• The historic core of the market town of Rochford is dominated by the many Listed Buildings and the surviving street pattern;

• A Motte and Bailey Castle lies just west of the medieval town of Rayleigh, which was constructed between 1066 and 1086 making it one of the earliest Norman castles in England.



8.16 within the Rochford District Historic Environment Characterisation Project. The historic and archaeological importance of the District is further detailed

Policy ENV1 – Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Landscape and Habitatsand th rote P ection of Historical and Archaeological Sites

The Council will maintain, restore and enhance sites of international, national and local nature nse s), co rvation importance. These will include Special Areas of Conservation (SACSpecial Protection Areas (SPAs), Ramsar Sites, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs), Ancient Woodlands, Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) and Local Wildlife Sites (LoWSs). In particular, the Council will support the implementation of the Crouch and Roach Management Plan.

The Council will also protect landscapes of historical and archaeological interest.

ict,

(PPG20 – Coastal Planning) has

coastal environment. These documents are clear on the need to direct development oastal change and this is especially true for the

Rochford District, where much of the coast is covered by national and international

8.19 At regional level, the Coastal Protection Subject Plan, a statutory plan adopted in the

most sand un ast. Policy CC1 of the Essex and Southend-on-Sea Replacement Structure Plan (2001) embodies the commitment to the Coastal Protection Belt. This

re adopte

Coastal Protection Belt

8.17 The undeveloped coast is one of the most important landscape assets of the Distrmatching the Special Landscape Areas. The District's coast and estuaries are of great importance recognised through national and international designations for their wildlife and natural habitats.

8.18 At the national level, Planning Policy Guidance 20 largely been replaced by the Planning Policy Statement 25 Supplement: Developmentand Coastal Change. This document and its companion practice guide provide guidance to Local Planning Authorities on planning for development and protecting the

away from areas vulnerable to c

nature conservation designations.

1984, defined the extent of the coastal areas within Essex where there would be tringent restriction on development, due to the special character of the open developed co

will be replaced by our own policies once the Development Plan Documents ad.



Policy ENV2 – Coastal Protection Belt

The Council will:

• Protect and enhance the landscape, wildlife and heritage qualities of the coastline, recognising the implications of climate change and sea level rise, and the need for necessary adaptation;

• Prevent the potential for coastal flooding; erosion by the sea; and unstable land (e.g. land slips);

• Not permit development in coastal areas which are at risk from flooding, erosion, and land instability;

• Ensure that development which is exceptionally permitted does not adversely affect the open and rural character, historic features or wildlife;

• Ensure that development which must be located in a coastal location will be within the already developed areas of the coast.

Flood Ri

8.21 g with other Local Authorities in Essex, including e

h

8.22 o t these risks, Planning Policy Statement 25 (PPS25 – Development and

Flood Risk) requires that flood risk is taken into account at all stages of the planning process. The Council will avoid inappropriate development by appraising, managing and reducing the risk in the areas prone to flooding.

(1) Appraising risk

The Council will apply the sequential test and direct development to areas least at risk of flooding. The Council will apply the exceptions test, as per PPS25, when the sequential test has shown that there are no available locations for necessary development other than within areas at risk of flooding, and will only allow development within such areas if the benefits of the development clearly outweigh the

sk

8.20 Development opportunities on the undeveloped coastline are limited by physical circumstances in the District, such as risk of flooding, erosion and land instability, as well as conservation policies. Climate change and related sea-level rises will have an impact on flood risk. A Strategic Flood Risk Assessment (SFRA) has been produced for Thames Gateway South Essex area. This assesses the flood risks posed and outlines the main hazard zones in order to further aid the planning process.

The Environment Agency is workinRochford District, in the production of a Shoreline Management Plan. The ShorelinManagement Plan will be a high level document that forms an important element of the strategy for flood and coastal erosion risk management. The Council will work witthe Environment Agency to ensure that the District continues to be subject to an appropriate level of protection.

Flooding can result in significant damage to properties and threaten human life. Tcounterac




risks from flooding. When development is permitted, significant levels of flood risk anagement plans, conveyance and Sustainable

Assessment for the Thames Gateway South Essex has been t

decisio

Areas at risk of flooding (Flood Zone 3) wi

rural areas. The majority of the Districtappropriate lie outside of flood risk areas. As such, it is envisaged that the vast

d within Flood Zone 1 (areas least at risk of flooding), although there may be exceptions involving previously developed land.

(2)

S25a ay fsettlements are in areas at e it would not be appropriate to relocate these affected areas due to the detrimental impact this would

community cohesion and the viability of such an approach. Nonetheless, the Council is working closely with partners to safeguard the flood risk area.

rol, water

quality management and amenity.

f

at the earliest site planning stage. The Environment Agency has identified five techniques:

ble

an improve water quality and reduce the peak flow and the total volume discharged from a roof, and a way to

at the same time.

ally

management (e.g. surface water mDrainage Systems) will be required.

A Strategic Flood Riskprepared and will be used to inform and apply the sequential test in developmen

ns for the District.

thin the District are unevenly distributed, being concentrated towards the east of the District in predominantly undeveloped,

’s settlements where new development is

majority of new development necessary within the District can be accommodate

Managing risk

PP states that Local Authorities should consider moving existing development w rom areas at risk of flooding. Parts of Great Wakering and other existing

risk of flooding. The Council believ

have on

(3) Reducing risk

Built up areas need to drain to remove surface water. The traditional pipeline system has exasperated the problem of polluted runoff from urban areas entering the riversystem. It is necessary to balance the impact of urban drainage on flood cont

Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS) offer an alternative approach to drainage in developed areas. The SUDS approach to drainage management includes a range otechniques to manage surface water as close to its source as possible to minimise potential flood risk. To produce a workable and effective scheme SUDS must be incorporated into developments

• Permeable pavement – The water passes through the surface to the permeafill. This allows the storage, treatment, transport and infiltration of water.

• Green roofs and rainwater use – Green roofs c

increase biodiversity

• Swales and basins – Swales are grassed depressions which lead surface water overland from the drained surface to a storage or discharge system, typicusing the green space of a roadside margin.



• Infiltration trenches and filter drains – An infiltration trench is a shallow, excavated trench that has been filled with stone to create an underground reservoir.

• Ponds and wetlands – Ponds and wetlands can be designed to accommodate considerable variations in water levels during storms, thereby enhancing flostorage capacity.

od

Policy ENV3 – Flood Risk

The Council will direct development away from areas at risk of flooding by applying the seque ity ntial test and, where necessary, the exceptions test, as per PPS25. The vast majorof development will be accommodated within Flood Zone 1. However, considering the very limited supply of previously developed land in the District, proposed development on previo 3 will be permitted if it enables a contribution usly developed land within Flood Zonetowards the District’s housing requirement that would otherwise require the reallocation of Green Belt land, providing that sts and is able to accommodate it passes the exceptions tethe necessary flood defence infrastructure.

The C a ouncil will continue to work with the Environment Agency to manage flood risk insustainable manner through capitalising on opportunities to make space for water wherever possible and through the continued provision of flood defences where necessary.

Policy nage Systems (SUDS) ENV4 – Sustainable Drai

All residential development over 10 units will be required to incorporate runoff control via SUDS to ensure runoff and infiltration rates do not increase the likelihood of flooding.

The requirement for SUDs will only be relaxed where there is conclusive evidence demonstrating that the system is not viable on a particular site.

Air Q

8.23

ide emissions. The growing dependence

improv

8.24 s, a d toWhereCounc

8.25 In Rocparticulate matter (PM10) and Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2) in Rawreth Industrial Estate and Rayleigh High Street respectively, the Council has factored such issues into the formulation of its policies, in particular those around housing locations.

uality Management Areas

Air quality is affected by emissions from industrial and commercial activities, cars, airports, power stations, natural and domestic sources, within those, road transport accounts for around 40% of UK Nitrogen Dioxon the car in the District has led to increased air pollution, although continuing

ements in technology may counteract this.

Local Authorities are required to carry out periodic reviews of air quality in their arean assess present and likely future quality against statutory air quality standards.

an area is designated as an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA), the il will consult local stakeholders and propose an Air Quality Action Plan for

improving air quality in that area in particular.

hford District, air quality tests showed that there may be exceedances of



8.26 h encou sex Rapid Transit (SERT) will be one of the potential possibilities. This initiative is detailed within the Transport chapter. SERT will link residential areas with employment, retail

This h and help to minimise the impact on the District’s air quality.

troduced the Car Share Scheme to its staff and will continue in order to reduce cars in key junctions where air pollutants

f

The Council aims to reduce the carbon emissions produced by vehicles througraging the use of public transport and travel plans. The delivery of South Es

areas and stations and become an alternative mode of transport to the private car. igh quality, frequent and high-capacity service will emit fewer harmful emissions

8.27 In 2008, the Council inpromoting travel plansaccumulate the most.

8.28 Where development proposals are likely to involve significant emissions into the air orwhere a sensitive development is proposed near an existing source of emissions, theCouncil will require the submission of appropriate details to enable a full judgement othe impact of the development to be made.

Policy ENV5 – Air Quality

New residential development will be restricted in Air Quality Management Areas in order to reduce public exposure to poor air quality.

In areas where poor air quality threatens to undermine public health and quality of life, the Council will seek to reduce the impact of poor air quality on receptors in that area and to address the cause of the poor air quality. Proposed development will be required to include measures to ensure it does not have an adverse impact on air quality.

Renewable Energy

8.29 Addressing climate change is a major priority for the Council as evidenced binclusion within the Corporate Plan and Sustainable Comm

y its unity Strategy. One of the

Council’s corporate aims is to provide a greener and more sustainable environment hames Gateway. There is a need to reduce energy

of the local environs, but also for the

8.30 ently no projects within the District. If such

line,

8.31 energy, the Council all-

and to be the ‘green’ part of the Tand water consumption not only for the benefit global environment. The Council is keen to reduce impacts of development on the environment through a variety of measures as set out in the following sections of thischapter.

Whilst recognising the contribution renewable energy can make, there are currplans for developing large-scale renewable energyschemes were to be proposed, the impact of such development on the character of the landscape would be a concern but the Council will endeavour to be supportive. The Council will refer to the Essex Landscape Character Assessment as a guideparticularly in areas designated for their landscape and nature conservation value.

To balance nature conservation and the promotion of renewablewill seek to reduce carbon emissions through supporting the development of smscale renewable energy projects and through its commitment towards zero carbon for all new housing developments.



8.32 The Council will encourage the development of small-scale renewable energy projects, where appropriate, including additions to residential properties; these projects and schemes (utilising technologies such as solar panels, photovoltaic cells, geothermal heat pumps and combined heat and power schemes) have the potential tomake a positive contribution towards renewable energy provision. The use of biomasheating will not be supported as biomass-burning boilers can produce more pollution than a similar gas system and emit a number of pollutants including nitrogen dioxide (NO ), particles (PM) and sulphur dioxide (SO ).

s

2 2

Policy ENV6 – Large Scale Renewable Energy Projects

Planning permission for large-scale renewable energy projects will be granted if:

• the development is not within, or adjacent to, an area designated for its ecological or landscape value, such as Special Areas of Conservation (SACs), Special Protection Areas (SPAs), Ramsar Sites, Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI's), Ancient Woodlands, Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) or Local Wildlife Sites (LoWSs); or if it can be shown that the integrity of the sites would not be adversely affected;

• there are no significant adverse visual impacts.

Policy ENV7 – Small Scale Renewable Energy Projects

The Council will favourably consider small-scale renewable energy development, particularly to residential properties, in both new and existing development, having regard to their location, scale, design and other measures, including ecological impact, are carefully considered.

8.33 The Council seeks to increase the proportion of renewable and low carbon energy

generation within the District to reduce the consumption of fossil fuels and the District’s carbon footprint. New development presents the opportunity to secure decentralised, renewable or low carbon energy sources such as on-site renewable energy generation technologies, which is relatively more cost effective to fit at the construction stage. Therefore new development presents the best opportunity to deliver such technologies.

8.34 The East of England Plan requires Local Planning Authorities to encourage

8.35

energy requirements to reduce subsequent carbon emissions.

developers to incorporate decentralised renewable or low carbon energy technologies to help achieve the Government’s targets for reducing carbon emissions, and the Council’s local policy is in line with its aims.

On-site renewable energy generation and low carbon energy generation have the potential to contribute towards a reduction in carbon emissions from the District, whilstalso helping to reduce energy costs for future residents. The Council therefore supports the provision of on-site renewable and low carbon energy generation in newdevelopments and will seek to secure its provision. The Council encourages developers of both residential and non-residential developments to incorporate on-siterenewable energy technologies and low carbon energy technologies to provide a proportion of the developments



Polic ENV8 – On-Site Renewable and Low Carbon Energy Generation y

Developments of five or more dwellings or non-residential developments of 1,000 square metres or more should secure at least 10% of their energy from decentralised and renewable or low-carbon sources, unless this is not feasible or viable.

Code

e environment, from the sources. It o new

Code for Sus

8.37 The Cconstragainst the Code for Sustainable Homes comes into effect as from 1 May 2008 and

.38 The Code is an environmental assessment method for new homes based on a scoring system of six levels. The different levels are reached by achieving both the

ith a proportion of the ‘flexible’ 3

to be

ed in relation to residential development by 2016.

y s

n

for Sustainable Homes/BREEAM

8.36 New development has the potential to impact upon thmaterials used to construct it, to the impact its future use has on natural reis crucial that energy and water conservation measures be incorporated intdevelopment measures, along with other sustainability measures.

tainable Homes

ode for Sustainable Homes is a national standard for sustainable design and uction of new homes. Mandatory rating for all new social housing developments

from 2010 all new homes will have to comply with it.

8

appropriate mandatory minimum standards together wstandards. The Code uses a sustainability rating system indicated by ‘stars’, to communicate the overall sustainability performance of a home. A home can achieve a sustainability rating from one to six stars depending on the extent to which it hasachieved the Code’s standards. The Government’s aim is for ‘carbon neutrality’achiev

8.39 The Code for Sustainable Homes provides an all-round measure of the sustainabilitof new homes, ensuring that homes deliver real improvements in key areas such acarbon dioxide emissions and water use. The new mandatory minimum levels ofperformance have been introduced across 6 key issues4. The Government’s ambitiofor the Code is that it becomes the single national standard for the design and construction of sustainable homes, and that it drives a step-change in sustainablehome building practice.

star ( ) is the entry level – above the level of the Building Regulations; and six stars ( ) is ighest level – reflecting exemplar development in sustainability terms, of which representing a “zero on home”, one where there are no net emissions of carbon dioxide from all energy use in the home.

ergy efficiency/CO2, (ii) Water efficiency, (iii) Surface water management, (iv) Site Waste Management, ousehold Waste Management, (vi) Use of Materials

3 One the hcarb

4 (i) En(v) H



BREEAM

8.40 It is important that all new non-residential developments should also meet a standard of high quality appraisal in terms of function and impact, not just for the short term but over the lifetime of the development.

8.41 BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is sment method for buildings. BREEAM BREEAM Offices, BREEAM Retail,

levels

8.42 e relevant teria. This is felt to be a more holistic approach than simply development’s energy to be generated from renewable

8.43

the most widely used environmental assescovers a wide range of building types (e.g.BREEAM Industrial), which are assessed against a set criteria. There are four of rating (Pass, Good, Very Good and Excellent) for all non-residential developments to achieve.

The Council will require all non-residential developments to meet thBREEAM assessment crirequiring a proportion of asources, as it enables a far more proactive approach to carbon management and covers a wider range of issues other than just energy use.

Whilst the importance of building environmentally sound developments is acknowledged, the Council does not want to make development unviable through the imposition of overly onerous standards. As such, whilst a BREEAM rating of excellent will be encouraged, a rating of at least ‘Very Good’ will be required.

Policy ENV9 – Code for Sustainable Homes

For all new residential developments, the Council will ensure that there are real improvements in key areas such as carbon dioxide emissions and water efficiency. As a minimu e required for all new m, Code level 3 of the Code for Sustainable Homes will bresidential development. From 2013, Code level 4 will be required as a minimum. From 2016 devel pments will be expected to meet the zero carbon target. The Council will expect odevelo ly pers to go beyond Code level 3 for developments between 2010 and 2013, particularin terms of water conservation measures, unless such requirements would render a particular development economically unviable.

Policy ENV10 – BREEAM

The Council will require new non-residential buildings, as a minimum, to meet the BREEAM rating of ‘Very Good’, unless such requirements would render a particular development economically unviable. In cases where it is considered appropriate to relax the requirement to meet the BREEAM rating of 'Very Good' due to viability issues, the Council will still expect development to meet as high a BREEAM rating as is economically viable. The Eco-Enterprise Centre proposed for the District will meet the ‘Excellent’ rating.

Contaminated Land

8for example, be due to past industrial uses or storage of industrial substances on land.

.44 Contaminated land is land that has been polluted with hazardous materials. This may,



As such, the issue of contaminated land has the potential to impact upon the reuse of previously developed, brownfield sites.

8.45 hich came into force on 1 April 2000. This

Guidance requires Local Authorities to inspect land in their area for threats to human

8.46 land,

be identified in an ordered, rational and efficient manner. The Council will not resist the development of appropriate sites solely because of land contamination,

8.47

Legislation concerning contaminated land is discussed within Part IIA of the Environmental Protection Act 1990, w st

health and the environment from land contamination.

The Council is continuing to inspect the District in order to identify contaminatedas outlined in the Contaminated Land Strategy (2004). The Strategy clearly sets out how land which merits detailed individual inspection within the contaminated land regime, will

as contaminated land can be remediated and made ‘fit for purpose’.

In light of the Council’s desire to encourage the reuse of brownfield sites over greenfield land, identifying and mitigating the impact of contaminated land is paramount.

Policy ENV11 – Contaminated Land

The presence of contaminated land on a site will not, in itself, be seen as a reason to resist its development.

The Council will require applicants who wish to develop suspected contaminated land to undertake a thorough investigation of the site and determine any risks. Relevant remediation and mitigation measures will need to be built into development proposals to ensure safe, sustainable development of the site.



9

Short

• orate additional, or are well

•

• oung people and

•

• A new single-form entry primary school with early years and childcare facilities has ed to residential development, and is serving the local

community.

g a

Green tourism initiatives and rural diversification have provided sustainable opportunities for rural businesses whilst maintaining a high quality environment.

• The District’s tourism offer has been further enhanced through the implementation of heritage initiatives.

Long Term

• A wide range of accessible community facilities and local services have been provided alongside new development which aids the integration and cohesion of communities. Such facilities include green open spaces, community halls, and play space, which cater for residents of all ages.

• A new single-form entry primary school with early years and childcare facilities has been built in Rayleigh, well related to residential development, and is serving the local community. Primary schools in the District’s rural settlements are well attended and remain important, viable community facilities. The District’s secondary schools have been expanded and enhanced.

Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism

Vision

Term

New sustainable, residential developments that incorprelated to, infrastructure, community facilities and play space have been planned and have begun to be implemented.

Other parks and open spaces continue to be improved through a rolling programme ofopen space refurbishment.

Initiatives have been implemented, which provide more facilities for yat least one new facility a year is being developed.

Additional leisure uses at Rayleigh leisure centre have been implemented.

been built in Rochford, well relat

Medium Term

• New healthcare facilities in accessible have been developed in the District, includinnew primary care centre which provides hospital-type services such as day case procedures, outpatient clinics and diagnostic tests to the District’s residents.

•



Objectives

1. Enan

sure that adequate infrastructure is provided alongside new developments, through open and transparent charging system.

that resident’s educational needs are met through the provision of additional

3. other relevant organisation, and developers to

4. appropriate, and ensure the provision of new community

2. Ensureand expanded secondary schools, primary schools and early years and childcare facilities, where appropriate.

Work with the Primary Care Trust, or ensure the provision of adequate healthcare facilities within the District.

Protect existing facilities, asfacilities, play space, youth facilities, leisure facilities, playing pitches and open space alongside new development.

5. Facilitate and promote green tourism projects within the District.



Introduction

re’ encompasses a wide range of issues,

from roads and sewers to education and healthcare. Infrastructure is provided by a

ture

s and local authorities. Government guidance on

way improvements, and to ensure affordable housing is delivered. There are concerns that planning obligations cannot address all the infrastructure deficiencies that will be caused by new development, particularly the incremental impact of smaller developments which individually do not warrant the provision of planning obligations, but have a significant cumulative impact.

9.3 The Council will produce a document setting out standard charges to be imposed on developers to contribute towards infrastructure provision. This document will be subject to consultation and independent scrutiny before adoption. The document will detail what infrastructure is needed, how much this will cost, and detail how much contribution each development will be required to make based on a simple formula which relates to the size and impact of the development on infrastructure. It will ensure that standard charges are used to aid the delivery of the requisite infrastructure in a manner which is fair and provides clarity for developers.

9.4 It is important that the requirements set by standard charges do not render the delivery of development unviable, i.e. it should not be set at such a high rate as to prevent development. As such, when drawing up the details of how the standard charges will be applied in Rochford District through the production of an Infrastructure and Standard Charges Document, the Council will engage with key stakeholders within the development industry in particular.

9.1 It is vital that new development is accompanied with appropriate infrastructure in order for it to be sustainable. The term ‘infrastructu

range of groups, including both private and public organisations. It is imperative that the Council work with such organisations in order to ensure the requisite infrastrucis delivered when required.

Planning Obligations and Standard Charges

9.2 The planning system has, for a number of years, enabled councils to require developers to make payments or undertake additional works to mitigate the impacts ofnew development, using a system known as planning obligations involving a legal agreement between developerplanning obligations is set out in Circular 05/2005 and the Council has used this to secure the provision of infrastructure improvements, such as high



Policy CLT1 – Planning Obligations and Standard Charges The Council will require developers to enter into legal agreements in order to secure planning obligations to address specific issues relating to developments, including requisite on-site infrastructure and the provision of on-site affordable housing, as per Circular 05/2005. In addition, the Council will apply standard charges to developments in order to secure financial contributions towards off-site and strategic infrastructure required as a result of additional development. The contribution required will be based on a standard formula which will be set out in a sepa te Planning Obligations and Standard Charges document. This will be developed in raconjunction with key stakeholders, including developers and service providers, having regard to the size and impact of developments, as well as impact on economic viability. Residential and employment development will be required to contribute to infrastructure as set out in Appendix CLT1 through Standard Charges. The requirement to pay standard charges may be reassessed and modified in cases where actual provision of infrastructure or facilities normally covered by standard charges are provided as part of the development.

Education

It is crucial that planning addresses accessibility to education.

Essex County Council is the education authority for Rochford District and produces annual plan on how education is to be provided within the area – School OrganisPlan. The report includes an analysis of supply and demand for school placRochford District. Essex County Council also has responsibilities in relation

9.5

9.6 an ation

es within to the

9.7

in the numbers of elderly people, with the youth population shrinking). However, the demographic for new housing has the potential to be younger than that of the existing population. Therefore new development may generate need for new educational facilities in particular locations, even though the overall school age population may not increase.

9.8 In determining the likely impact on school place supply and demand from future housing allocations it will be necessary to take a more sophisticated approach than purely looking at population projections.

9.9 Notwithstanding this, the distribution of housing proposed in the Housing section of the Core Strategy makes it clear that new single-form entry primary schools will be required in Rayleigh and Rochford as a minimum.

provision of childcare facilities and have produced a Childcare Sufficiency Assessment report, which sets out the supply of childcare and parental demand forchildcare within Essex.

Recent data has demonstrated there is no direct correlation between estimated total population increase and the numbers of pupils in schools (the overall population increase has been largely due to an increase



9.10 At least 1.1 hectares of land within areas allocated for resrequired for a primary school in Rayleigh and Rochford. In

idential development will be addition, the existing

arly

e developed within new residential areas, delivered through a

e minimised and how safe, direct walking and cycling routes will be provided between

here they are in excess of the statutory maximum walking distances from schools.

secondary school in Rochford – King Edmund School – will be allocated the necessary 3 hectares to allow the required expansion to meet additional need. Residential development in Hockley is not considered to generate a requirement forany additional significant educational development other than for an additional eyears and childcare facility, but the Council will continue to monitor the situation and demand contributions from developers when required.

9.11 New schools will bcombination of planning obligations and funding obtained through standard charges on development.

9.12 As set out in the Transport section of the Core Strategy, new schools will be required to produce a travel plan that demonstrates how use of the private car will b

new developments and educational facilities. Residential developments will also be required to contribute towards school transport w

9.13 Improvements to, and in some cases expansion of, existing schools will also be necessary.

Policy CLT2 – Primary Education, Early Years and Childcare Facilities The Council will allocate at least 1.1 hectares of land within the new residential areas of both Rayleigh and West Rochford, arising from the allocation of land in the general areas indic ed in Policy H2, for new single-form entry primary schools with early years and atchildcare facilities. In addition, the Council will seek to incorporate a new early years and childcare facility into any redevelopment of the centre of Hockley. The C w primary ouncil will work with Essex County Council and developers to ensure that neschools with early years and childcare facilities are developed in a timely manner and well related to residential development. The new schools will be of a flexible design that allows it to adapt to future supply/demand issues. In con nd junction with Essex County Council, the Council will carefully monitor the supply ademand of primary school places, as well as early years and childcare facilities. Developer contributions will be sought to increase the capacities of existing primary schools where required. Standard charges will be applied as per Policy CLT1.



Policy CLT3 – Secondary Education As par t of new development coming forward in Ashingdon, the Council will require that3 hectares of land be reserved for the expansion of King Edmund School. In addition, new development in East Ashingdon will incorporate a new, improved access to King Edmund School. The C idual schools themselves to ouncil will work with Essex County Council and the indivachieve the necessary expansion of Fitzwimarc and Sweyne Park schools. Developer contr utions will be required for this purpose where appropriate. Standard Charges will be ibapplied as per Policy CLT1. In conjunction with Essex County Council, the Council will carefully monitor the supply and deman y CLT1 d of secondary school places. Standard Charges will be applied as per Policto increase the capacities of existing secondary schools where required. Standard Charges will be applied to mitigate the cost of transporting pupils from new reside school to an appropriate ntial developments in settlements without a secondarysecondary school, as per Policy CLT1.

Healthcare

re.

.16 Current healthcare facilities are concentrated in the District’s three largest settlements:

ell

luded.

r

te locations.

9.14 Healthcare facilities are a crucial component of community infrastructu

9.15 The Council will work with its partners – particularly the South East Essex Primary Care Trust, or other relevant organisation – to ensure that adequate healthcarefacilities are in place to meet the needs of the District’s growing, and ageing, population.

9Rayleigh, Hockley and Rochford. There are some healthcare facilities in the smaller settlements. Accessibility of healthcare services is vital and new facilities must be wlocated in relation to the District’s population, and accessible by a range of transport options to ensure that no one is exc

9.17 The Council will take a two-pronged approach to ensuring this: firstly, new residentialdevelopment will be located in areas from which healthcare facilities are accessible, owill be of a scale to ensure that new facilities are viable (see Housing chapter); Secondly, the Council will support the Primary Care Trust, or other relevant organisation, in identifying appropriate sites for additional facilities in appropria



9.18 Health Impact Assessments (HIAsregard to healthcare provision nee

) can be utilised to ensure that developments have ds. Health Impact Assessment (HIA) is an approach

ions that ensures decision making at all levels considers the potential impacts of decison health and health inequalities. The assessments identify the actions that can enhance positive effects and reduce or eliminate negative effects on health and inequalities, including in relation to the provision of healthcare facilities.

Policy CLT4 – Healthcare The Council will take the following actions to ensure that healthcare needs are met:

• Assist the Primary Care Trust, or other relevant organisation, in identifying sites for additional healthcare facilities in the District which are well related to the District’s population and in accessible locations, and aid their implementation.

• Require new residential developments over 50 dwellings and non-residential developments over 1000 square metres to be accompanied by a Health Impact Assessment and an assessment of their impact on healthcare facilities. Where significant impacts are identified, developers will be required to address negative effects prior to the implementation of development.

• Take a positive approach towards proposals for the renovation or replacement of healthcare facilities that become outdated.

Open Space

The District contains numerous open spaces within built up areas, both privatepublicly own

9.19 ly and ed, formal and informal.

9.21 open space, designed in such a way that

is integrated into the development and accessible to local people.

9.22 e of

9.20 These contribute towards the character of the District’s settlements and form green links, as well as providing recreation and sports opportunities.

While the District contains large amounts of open green space, it is important that new development incorporates accessible public

In addition, particularly with development in town centre locations, public open space including public art can make a positive contribution towards character and sensplace, as well as residential amenity.



Policy CLT5 – Open Space

New public open space will be required to accompany additional residential development, having lied regard to local current and projected future need. Standard Charges may be appto developments as necessary.

In particular the Council will seek the incorporation of a significant amount of public open space to accompany new, and be integrated with existing, residential development in the west of Rayleigh.

Provision of public conveniences and public art within public open spaces will be encouraged.

Furthermore, the following existing uses will usually be protected, whether in public or privateownership:

• Parks;

• Amenity areas;

• Allotments;

• Playing pitches; and

• Any other form of open space that has a high townscape value or is intrinsic to the character of the area.

New forms of the above will be promoted.

9.23 ng halls, places of

of community.

9.25 A strong sense of community, it is hoped, will also contribute towards increasing participation in volunteering, as per one of the key objectives of the Sustainable Community Strategy.

9.26 The Council will, in conjunction with its partners, need to ensure that new community facilities are developed and existing ones adapted to meet changing needs.

Community Facilities

A comprehensive range of community facilities, including meetiworship and social clubs exist throughout the District. These are well used and provide an important role for communities. The Council will seek to safeguard the use of community facilities, and to ensure they continue to provide a useful function to the communities they serve.

9.24 A need for additional community facilities within the District will arise as a result of residential development and the increasing population. Community facilities can act as a focal point for new or existing communities, helping strengthen identity and sense



Policy CLT6 – Community Facilities

Community facilities will be safeguarded from development that will undermine their important role within the community.

New community facilities will be promoted in new and existing residential areas where a need is shown. The Council may require such facilities to be accommodated within new residential development schemes.

Standard Charges may be applied as necessary in order to facilitate the delivery and enhancement of community facilities, as per Policy CLT1.

Play Space

9.27 With higher densities of residential development being required in order to reduce the d land lost to housing, it has become increasingly difficult to ensure

that dwellings are accompanied with large garden areas that can be utilised as play lay space will play an important function in new

residential developments. Communal space can help foster a sense of community s, providing a space where neighbours interact.

9.28 y Strategy sets out the Council’s approach to the provision of play space in the District. The Council aims to increase the number of

including partnership agreements with schools and other publicly owned facilities. The Council also seek to establish play space which is safe, comprising activities that

ognises that accessibility of play space is key. As such, new provided within new residential developments. It is crucial that

9.30

nd

ed by Big Lottery Fund money received.

amount of greenfiel

space. As such, communal p

within new development

The Council’s 2007-2012 Pla

affordable play, cultural and leisure opportunities for children and young people,

are self-directed and fun.

9.29 The Play Strategy recplay space should beparents and children feel safe within such space; therefore play space should be located in areas that are subject to natural surveillance – i.e. are overlooked and/orare subject to a number of passers-by.

The provision of new space in the District should accord with the Council’s Play Strategy.

9.31 There are a number of existing play spaces within the District which are well used aimportant to the local communities they serve. The Council will seek to protect and enhance such spaces, including through the provision of additional fixed play equipment fund



Policy CLT7 – Play Space

New residential developments will incorporate appropriate communal play space which complies with the Council’s Play Strategy, is accessible and subject to natural surveillance.

Play space within developments should be maintained by an appropriate management company.

The Council will usually protect existing play spaces and enhance them through the provision of additional fixed play equipment.

Standard Charges will be applied to secure play space enhancements as per Policy CLT1.

Youth Facilities

9.32

and

and for additional youth facilities. The exact nature of such facilities will depend on the

9.33 was shown as a short-term measure.

for

wn Centres section of the Core Strategy.

Formal places where people can meet and interact with their peers have traditionally fallen into two categories: spaces for children (e.g. playgrounds); and spaces for adults (e.g. pubs). Within such spaces adolescents do not tend to be welcomemay find themselves excluded. This coupled with a lack of accessible, appropriate, informal meeting places for adolescents in the District has created a dem

particular local need and the particular group such use is meant for, for examplefacilities for 12 year-olds are likely to differ considerably from those appropriate for older teenagers.

The Council has provided a number of teen shelters in areas of the District where a need for spaces for youths

9.34 There have been efforts in recent years by various organisations to create facilities young people, but concerns have been expressed that existing planning policies havehindered their development. A more positive approach is now required. There is aparticular opportunity to increase provision of activities for young people in the centreof Hockley, as detailed in Retail and To

Polic CLT8 – Youth Facilities y

The Council will encourage the provision of additional facilities for young people within appropriate locations where a need has been identified and which are accessible by a range of transport options.

Such f ould be well managed and acilities should be appropriate to the target age-group, shflexible to meet changing needs. Any development of youth facilities will be required to show that the views of young people have been incorporated into the development. Standard Charges will be applied to aid the delivery of youth facilities, as per Policy CLT1.



Leisure Facilities

9.35 Leisure activities have an important role to play in health, quality of life and the economy. The importance of having good, accessible leisure facilities is iterated in theEast of England Plan.

main re centres are Clements Hall, Hawkwell and Rayleigh Leisure Centre, but their

England in 2006 found that 74.7% of the District’s adult

District residents live within 20 minutes of at least 3 different leisure facilities, of which s received a quality mark. This is the 4th lowest in the County and

below the Essex average.

9.38 sure

9.39 in all.

sure

9.36 The District contains an array of both private and public sports facilities. The two leisuoffer is complemented by a variety of other facilities across the District.

9.37 A study carried out by Sport population were satisfied or very satisfied with the level of sports provision in their area – the third highest satisfaction rating in Essex. However, only 6.95% of Rochford

at least one ha

Accessibility of leisure and recreation facilities is an important issue and future leidevelopments should be in locations accessible by a range of transport options.

The Council recognises that there are a number of potential leisure opportunities the District, such as within school premises, which are currently not available toSuch facilities, if opened up fully, have the potential to increase accessibility to leiactivities for the District’s population.

Polic CLT9 – Leisure Facilities y

The C ss the District are ouncil will work with its partners to ensure that leisure facilities acromaintained and enhanced.

In particular, the Council will seek to enhance recreational opportunities at Rayleigh Leisure Centre.

The Council will also look to make the best use of existing facilities in the District by encouraging those such as within school premises to be made accessible to all.

Playing Pitches

9.40 In addition to other leisure facilities as discussed above, playing pitches are considered worthy of specific mention within the Core Strategy.

itch provision. Whilst the District relies, to a degree, on the more urban neighbouring centres for jobs, facilities and retail, there is a reciprocal reliance from these areas on Rochford to provide open space and recreational opportunities.

9.41 Playing pitches are areas of formal open space available to the public and used specifically for the playing of sports such as football, rugby, hockey and cricket.

9.42 The District has a role to play within the wider area with regards to playing p



9.43 The District hasan appropriate form of development within

the potential to accommodate playing pitches as they are considered the Green Belt. However, playing pitches

ches

ent impact on the landscape to more informal open spaces. Issues such as accessibility, impact on

9.44 are

9.45 ing pitches within Design Guidance Notes: Pavilions and

Club Houses. Within the Green Belt, the minimum size recommended by the

9.46 The Council will update the existing Playing Pitch Strategy Supplementary Planning

will not always be considered appropriate in all Green Belt locations. Playing pitrequire maintenance and, in many cases, the provision of ancillary buildings and, as such, have a very differThey are also subject to frequent visits. biodiversity, character and openness of the Green Belt, and amenity of neighbouring residents must be considered.

Opportunities to accommodate playing pitches outside of the Green Beltwelcomed, as this will often provide facilities in more accessible locations, particularlyif pitches are accompanying other visitor-generating activities. When considering proposals for playing pitches outside of the Green Belt, many of the same issues (e.g. accessibility, residential amenity etc) will still apply.

Sport England has published detailed guidance for the provision of essential built facilities to accompany play

guidance for accompanying facilities must not be exceeded.

Document on playing pitch provision which will include a more up-to-date analysis ofthe supply and demand of pitches, together with a quantitative and qualitative assessment of future need.

Policy CLT10 – Playing Pitches

The Council will take a positive approach to the provision of playing pitches within the District.

Green Belt locations for additional playing pitches will be considered appropriate in the following circumstances:

• There is a need for additional playing pitches in the area which cannot be met by available sites outside of the Green Belt.

• The site is in an accessible location on the edge of a settlement

• The impact on the openness of the Green Belt is minimised through the provision of pitches being on a small-scale and any essential accompanying facilities to be developed at the minimum necessary size having regard to guidance from Sport England.

• The finished site will be level, free-draining and of a sufficient size to accommodate the proposed uses, as stipulated in Sport England guidance.

• There is no undue impact on residential amenity or highway safety and efficiency.

In add ent ition, the Council will resist the loss of existing playing pitches unless the replacemof such pitches by an equal or better provision in an appropriate location can be secured, or it can b ying pitch. e clearly demonstrated that the site is not viable for use as a pla



Tourism

The Council is exploring the possibility of enhancing the District’s economy through the promotion of tourism. The District has been identified as the ‘green’ part of the Thames Gateway and as having the potential to be the arts and cultural opportunitiearea for the sub-region.

The Council has begun to activ

9.47

s

9.48 ely promote the area as a tourist destination, having

9.49

able manner which respects the

tourism.

9.50 Government guidance on this issue contained within Good Practice Guide on

al er factors, such as the need for rural regeneration, need

to be given weight.

9.51 The RSPB’s proposed Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project has potential tourism land

apter of the Core Strategy.

produced and circulated a District tourism guide.

The District’s tourism opportunities are focussed primarily on the themes of heritage, coastline and countryside. The latter raises a number of issues: impact on character and openness of the Green Belt; possible effect on biodiversity; and sustainability. It will be possible to promote rural tourism in a sustainbiodiversity and the character of the Green Belt (The issue of tourism in relation toGreen Belt specifically is discussed in Green Belt chapter of the Core Strategy). Theimpact on ecological issues will also be a particular issue in respect of coastal

Planning Tourism (DCLG, 2007) notes the potential for tourism to deliver economic benefits. The guide states that transport and accessibility is inherent to tourism. However, it also notes that public transport is often limited within areas with rurtourism potential and that oth

opportunities and is discussed within the Upper Roach Valley and Wallasea Isch

Policy CLT11 – Tourism

The Council will promote the development of green tourism projects and the conversion of approp te ruria ral buildings to bed and breakfasts/hotels which do not adversely impact upon character of place or biodiversity.

Whilst iority ar, pr will be given to areas which are accessible by alternative means to the cschem that h es are in locations with limited public transport links will also be supported if sucproposals are able to make a positive contribution to rural regeneration or the well-being ofrural communities.



Appendix CLT1

Standard Charges to be used Infrastructure

Required Residential Development

Employment Development

Planning Obligations to be used where

appropriate

Other Issues/ Comment

Himprove

ighway ments

Yes Yes Yes

P timprove

ublic ransport ments

Yes Yes Yes

Cycle network Yes Yes Yes

Greenways Yes No Yes

Recyclinfacilities

g Yes No Yes

P yeducatioexpansi

rimar n

on

Yes No Yes

Early yechildcarfacilities

ars and e

Yes Yes Yes

S deducatioexpansion areas, as appropriate.

econ ary n

Yes No No Land to be allocated within new residential

Nschool, R

No Yes Land to be allocated within new residential

.

ew primary Yes

ayleigh areas, as appropriate

Nschool, West R

within new residential e.

ew primary Yes No Yes Land to be allocated

ochford areas, as appropriat

EimaEdmund School

areas, as appropriate.

xpansion and provement of

ccess at King

Yes No Yes Land to be allocated within new residential

Expansion of Fitzwimarc and Sweyne Park Schools

Yes No No

Flood Protection Measures

No No Yes



Standard Charges to be used Infrastructure

Required Residential Development

Employment Development

Planning Obligations to be e used wher

appropriate

Other Issues/ Comment

Sudrainage

stainable

systems

No No Yes

Youth facilities Yes No Yes Standard charges pplied to secure

expansions. Planning

ecure on-site provision here appropriate.

a

obligations applied to sw

Communityfacilities

tandard charges

expansions. Planning bligations applied to

secure on-site provision where appropriate.

Yes No Yes Sapplied to secure

o

Leisure facilities

Yes No Yes Standard charges applied to secure expansions. Planning

n obligations applied to secure on-site provisiowhere appropriate.

Healthcare improvements

Yes No Yes Standard charges to secure delivery of newfacilities. Planning obligations to require mitigation measures identified by healthcareimpact assessment to be undertaken.

Open space No No Yes

residential

Open space to be provided alongside new

development.

Play Space (new and enhancement of existing)

Yes No Yes Standard charges and planning obligations applied to secure off-site and on-site

rovision, respectively, where appropriate. p



10 Transport

Vision

ansport schemes have been initiated to help reduce congestion on the District’s ads, such as online road improvements and the implementation of travel plans.

ments h led to a more uent, reliable compretransport system with better linkages between bus and rail.

• Work will be undertaken with the County Council as highway aupotential solutions to congestion issues across the District to eninfrastructure becomes ‘fit for purpose’.

he Rochford District Council Transportation Strategy Supplemdopted and will help to ease transport iss

Medium Term

• A walking cycling and bridleway network has been implemented across the District. here is improve lic access to District’s rive

• Residential development will have considered community facilitiaccess to these will be easy and sustainable

• Appropriate infrastructure will have been put into place to securewharfage at Baltic Wharf, thus helping to secure its future as an employment area.

th Essex Rapid Transit System (SERT) has been implegenuine sustainable alternative to the private car.

Long Term

• Developer contributions have ensured that new developments public transport. Cycle and pedestrian networks have been de

• The new employment park is accompanied by a travel plan andworkers by a range of transport options.

infrastructure through the District will have be cured r access t A127 and A1

ea Island will be accessible by improved road access

• The employment park in the west of the District will have easy atransport networks.

Short Term

• Trro

• Improve ave freq and hensive public

thority to look at sure the highway

• TDocument has been a

entary Planning ues across the District.

T d pub the rs.

es provision and

access to the

• The Sou mented giving people a

are well integrated with veloped linking

important areas.

is accessible to

• Roadeasie

• Wallas

en se and improved with

ccess on to the main

o the 30.



Objectives

1. Torel

deliver developments that will reduce reliance on the private car, and that are well ated to the public transport network.

iver online improvements on the east to west road networks in partnership with

3.

to

ith Essex County Council and other organisations, such as Sustrans, to s

vel

2. To delthe Highways Authority, Essex County Council.

To identify and assess locations in the District that currently suffer from poor highway connectivity and congestion, and work with the Highways Authority to identify solutions.

4. To work alongside Essex County Council and other Thames Gateway authoritiessupport the implementation of the South Essex Rapid Transit system, in particularensuring that SERT connects the residential areas with the employment areas within Rochford District.

5. To ensure that all new developments including residential, employment, education and leisure, implement travel plans to reduce the reliance on the private car.

6. To work wensure that a safe, accessible and convenient network of cycle and pedestrian routeis implemented across the District.

7. To aid the delivery of greenways identified in the Thames Gateway Green Grid Strategy, alongside Essex County Council and neighbouring authorities.

8. To ensure appropriate car parking provisions accompanies development at a lewhich strikes a balance between meeting the needs of motorists, ensuring that parking does not take up excessive amounts of developable land, and encouraging alternatives to car use.



Introduction

1 port initiatives, and also sets out transport

policies which are in line with the objectives of the East of England Plan. The

cy and Network Rail. In turn, the

ed by nty Council and the current LTP covers the time period 2006-11.

2

areas.

3

10.4 , to ensure that the road network is maintained and

10.5 ng their

10.6 ide of the District and to ensure that employment areas in the

east remain viable.

10.7 Whilst current economic and social needs must be met, the only long-term option for Rochford District is to try and reduce the need to travel by car and promote the use of alternative methods of transport. It is recognised that people cannot be forced to not use their cars and the Council must be realistic in terms of ensuring there is adequate highway infrastructure. Planning must aim to give people the option to use alternatives. The theme of reducing car dependency is highlighted in this chapter, but also runs through the Core Strategy as a whole.

Highways

10.8 In order for development to be sustainable it must meet the needs of the present, as well as the future. Currently, the nature of the District does not lend itself to travel without the use of a private car. The District experiences high-levels of car usage and, whilst it is important that the Council plan development in a way that reduces this reliance on the car, the economic and social importance of car usage in the District at this time should not be underestimated.

10. The East of England Plan incorporates a Regional Transport Strategy (RTS) which outlines the delivery of funding for trans

Regional Transport Strategy is a statutory document and as such is influenced by the delivery programmes of both the Highways AgenRegional Transport Strategy will then help to shape Local Transport Plans (LTP) which are produced by Local Highways Authorities; namely County and Unitary Councils. The Local Transport Plan covering the district of Rochford is producEssex Cou

10. Rochford District currently has high-levels of car ownership with only 16% of households in the District not owning a car or van (2001 Census). The District is alsosubject to high levels of out-commuting and suffers limited public transport provision, particularly in rural

10. There are concerns that, with the projected population increase, car usage will increase to the detriment of the environment and lead to intolerable levels of congestion.

The Council will continue to work with Essex County Council who are the Highway Authority covering Rochford Districtupgraded where necessary.

However, highway improvements serving new developments and mitigatiimpacts will be required to come forward in a timely manner, ensuring that developments are delivered alongside the necessary infrastructure.

In addition, improvements to existing east-west routes are also required in order to reduce the east-west div



10.9 It is imporinfrastructure improvements to mitigate

tant that new development be accompanied by the requisite highway their impact on the existing network. The

nd ). In

Council will work with Essex County Council to ensure that such highway improvements are delivered, aided through a combination of planning obligations astandard charges for developers (see Preferred Option CLT1 for further detailsaddition, the Council believe that existing connections between the west, where the population is focussed, and the more rural east which nevertheless contains a numberof local employment uses, is inadequate. The Council will work with Essex CountyCouncil to seek necessary improvements to east-west highways in order to help sustain employment uses in the east of the District. The Council will also liaise with developers to ensure the delivery of Transport Impact Assessments alongside any proposed development.

Policy T1 – Highways

Developments will be required to be located and designed in such a way as to reduce relianc ver, some impact on the highway network is inevitable and e on the private car. Howethe Council will work with developers and the Highway Authority to ensure that appropriate improvements are carried out. The Council will seek developer contributions where necessary.

The Council will work with the Highways Authority to deliver online improvements to the east to west road network, and improvements to the highways serving Baltic Wharf in order to sustain employment in this rural part of the District. The Council will also work with the Highways Authority to find ways to manage congestion along specific routes in the District.

Policy T2 – Highways Improvements

The Council will work with Essex County Council Highways Authority to ensure that highway improvements are implemented to address issues of congestion, road flooding and poor signage. In particular, highway improvements to the following will be prioritised:

• Brays Lane, Ashingdon (improved to access to King Edmund School);

• Ashingdon Road to improve traffic flows and reduce congestion;

• Rectory Road/Ashingdon Road Roundabout;

• Watery Lane;

• Spa Road/Main Road Roundabout Hockley;

• Rayleigh Weir junction;

• Enhancements to the B1013 to improve traffic flows and reduce congestion; and

• Surface access to London Southend Airport.

It should however be noted that Rochford District Council is not the Highway Authority and as such does not have responsibility for the Highway network. The Council will however work closely with the Highway Authority, Essex County Council, in order to ensure any proposed schemes in Rochford are given the appropriate priority.



10.10 The list in Policy T2 is by no means exhaustive or definitive and the Council wilcontinue to work with Essex County Council to resolve any highways issues acrossthe District as a whole. Details of highway improvements to improve surfato London Southend Airport will be included as part of the London Southend Airport and Environs Joint Area Action Plan.

Essex County Council as the Highway Authority have also stated in their Local Transport Plan (2006 – 2011) that Rochford has been recognised as playing a prominent part on the regeneration of the Thames Gateway sub-region through its roas a centre for leisure and recreational facilities within the Thames Gateway. It is alsnoted within the LTP that the potential development of London Southend Airport wilplay a key strategic role f

l

ce access

10.11

le o

l or economy and tourism, and will require a Surface Access

Strategy in order to provide a choice of transport alternatives.

ckle

ouncil will work in partnership with Essex County Council as the highway

s

The purpose of the Transportation Strategy SPD is to provide further detail and guidance on the transportation issues outlined in the Core Strategy. In particular, it will examine the highway issues outlined in Policy T2, and the transport infrastructure

elopment set out in Appendix H1 of the Core

10.15 ential eas , by a

istrict is ouncil can influence the provision

10.16 ment is well related to existing provision of additional public

quire developers to contribute towards public transport

hwa

10.12 A Route Management Strategy will be developed and implemented in order to tathe issues of congestion and poor air quality around many junctions on the strategic networks by Essex County Council in partnership with Southend Borough Council and Thurrock Council. Specifically the Rayleigh Weir junction of the A127 is mentioned.

10.13 The Cauthority to design and implement a Transportation Strategy Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) for Rochford District. The Strategy will assess the transport issueseen in the District and set out how they will be improved and dealt with.

10.14

requirements of new housing devStrategy.

Public Transport

One method of reducing the need to travel by private car is to ensure that residar are connected to destinations, such as places of work and town centresreliable and efficient public transport system. As public transport in the Dprivately operated, there is a limit to how much the Cof public transport.

Planning should, however, ensure that new developpublic transport where possible, and encourage the transport. Planning can also reprovision, in order to mitigate against possible impacts of new developments on the hig y network.



Policy T3 – Public Transport

Develo pment must be well related to public transport, or accessible by means other than theprivate car.

In particular, large-scale residential developments will be required to be integrated with public transport and designed in a way that encourages the use of alternative forms of transport to the private car.

Where developments are not well located to such infrastructure, and alternatives are not available, contributions towards sustainable transport infrastructure will be sought.

The C Essex County Council ouncil will work with developers, public transport operators and to ensure that new developments are integrated into the public transport system and, where necessary, public transport infrastructure is upgraded and marketing, publicity and travel incentives are provided.

The Council recognise that public transport is provided in the District as a commercial enterprise and, as such, it is important to ensure that developments are planned in a manner such that the provision of public transport to them is economically viable for operators. Nevertheless, the provision of public transport services and facilities is socially important, and contributes to equality of access to services. The Council will seek to ensure that good public transport links continue to be provided to the town centres.

Essex Rapid Transit (SERT)

Essex County Council, in partnership with the unitary authorities of Southend anThurrock,

South

10.17 d have developed a programme for the delivery of a rapid transit system for

ssex Rapid Transit (SERT). SERT will comprise of a network necting the four main hubs, key development sites, major services and

providing connections between the radial routes. The four main hubs are Basildon,

10.18 routes and existing roads where SERT vehicles are given priority

over other traffic. This service will provide rapid and reliable connections between e

South Essex – South Eof corridors con

Thurrock, Southend and London Gateway Port. While the initial route does not directly serve the District, future phases have the potential to do so.

SERT will involve high-quality bus-based vehicles travelling on a combination of specially dedicated

residential areas and employment within the sub-region, helping to reduce car usagand ease congestion.

Policy T4 – South Essex Rapid Transit (SERT)

The Council will work with Essex County Council to support the implementation of SERT. The Council will seek to ensure that SERT connects the District’s residential areas with employment opportunities (particularly London Southend Airport and environs) and, where this is the case, assist Essex County Council in implementing dedicated routes and measures to ensure that SERT vehicles have priority over other traffic.



Travel Plans

10.19 A travel plan is a package of practical measures to encourage employees/staff and pupils/residents/patients to be able to use methods of transport other than the car, andto redu

ce the need to travel by private car. A travel plan should be tailored to a

re feasible and more attractive to people.

” share scheme operated by an employer.

e.

is

necessity of high levels of connectivity with the local transport network, and may also

10.22 Travel plans may vary in scale and form, from a small package that includes bus s.

particular site and use, and include a range of measures which will make a positive impact at that site. These could include, for example, setting up a car sharing scheme; providing cycle facilities; offering attractive flexible-working practices. The idea is to make alternatives to the car mo

10.20 There are several types of travel plans. Trip destination travel plans have been thesignificant focus to date. Destination travel plans have the overarching aim of reducing car use to specific destinations – schools, workplaces, visitor attractions etc. The travel plan will be drawn up in partnership with the employer, school or attraction, local authority and public transport operators. An example would be a “walking busto a school, or a car

10.21 Origin, or residential travel plans, addresses the problem from the opposite anglHowever, this raises several issues in that the pattern of journeys originating from residential areas are to varied and multiple destinations. As a consequence of thresidential travel plans should incorporate a wider variety of measures encouragingmore sustainable travel choices. Targets should also be set within travel plans to ensure that the objectives are achieved. Residential travel plans highlight the

involve more personalised travel plans.

timetables, maps of cycle footpaths, etc, to larger measures such as cycle voucher

Policy T5 – Travel Plans

Travel plans will be required for developments involving both destinations and trip origins. New s be chools, visitor attractions, leisure uses and larger employment developments will require , single-d to devise and implement a travel plan, which aims to reduce privateoccupancy car use. Existing schools and employers will be encouraged to implement travel plans.

A travel plan will be required for any residential development comprising 50 or more units and should be tailored to meet the specific requirements of the development.

vision ing rooms, showers

etc. at destinations.

Cycling and Walking

10.23 Increased opportunities for cycling and walking not only provide health and leisure benefits, but can also help reduce car dependency for certain journey types.

10.24 A two-pronged approach will be necessary to improve people’s opportunity to cycle: an improved network of safe and convenient cycle paths, together with the proof secure cycle parking and other facilities such as lockers, chang



Policy T6 – Cycling and Walking

The Council will work with Essex County Council, along with other organisations such as Sustra is put ns, to ensure that a safe and convenient network of cycle and pedestrian routes in place to link homes, workplaces, services and town centres. Where developments generate a potential demand to travel, developers will be required to contribute to the deliver y of such a network. The Council will also continue to require developers to providefacilities for cyclists at all new developments.

The Council will also seek the further development of cyclepaths, footpaths and bridleways that, having regard to ecological interests, open up and develop the access network alongside the District’s rivers.

The Council will also encourage new cycle and footpath links with neighbouring authorities.

10.25 s, d

es

itted

of South Essex area which, in addition tional routes, also provide alternative transport options. A

e

planned greenways.

Greenways

As part of ensuring that the regeneration of the Thames Gateway is sustainable, a strategy has been produced – the Green Grid Strategy – which has a number of aimincluding to connect new communities with existing neighbourhoods, the regenerateriverside, local attractions and the countryside; create high quality new green spaclinks in areas of opportunity and need; and plan and promote the Green Grid network as part of a sustainable transport strategy.

10.26 The Council are a member of the Green Grid partnership and, as such, are commto seeing the aims of the Green Grid Strategy realised. Part of the Green Grid Strategy proposes the creation of “greenways” – footpaths, cyclepaths and bridlepaths that connect to and through towns and the restto leisure and recreanumber of the proposed greenways are within Rochford District, and although not directly able to implement greenways alone, the Council will work with partners to sethem realised.

10.27 It should be noted that the proposed cycle network has the potential to deliver an element of the



Policy T7 – Greenways

The Council will work with partners, including neighbouring authorities, to aid the delivery of the following greenways identified in the Thames Gateway Green Grid Strategy which are of relevance to Rochford District:

• Greenway 13: South Benfleet;

• Greenway 16: Leigh-Rayleigh;

• Greenway 18: Central Southend (to Rochford);

• Greenway 19: Southchurch;

• Greenway 20: Shoeburyness; and

• Greenway 21: City to Sea/Shoreline.

ng Standards

National government policy, as stated in Planning Policy Guidance Note 13, has madeit clear that parking policies should be used as part of a range of measures to promotesustainable transport and reduce reliance o

Parki

10.28

n the private car. It did state that Local Authorities should not apply minimum parking standards to development, but the

Policy

of car paring space. This will enable the provision of car parking spaces that are “well integrated with a high quality public realm and streets that are

10.29 Our current parking standards are set out in Parking Standards Design and Good Practice Supplementary Planning Document (Adopted December 2010). These standards are based on evidence developed by Essex County Council in conjunction with the Essex Planning Officers Association.

10.30 The Council believe that limiting parking provision at trip destinations can have a positive impact on sustainability and reduce congestion. However, the Council also believe that limiting car parking for residential development has little impact on the number of cars people use, and has predominantly negative effects. In such cases, a minimum standard is appropriate, although residential development within town centre locations or within close proximity to one of the District’s train stations may be exempted from such requirements.

requirement to set maximum parking standards was deleted in amendments to Planning Policy Guidance Note 13 in January 2011. The Council have always been concerned that limiting parking at the origin of trips, i.e. homes, may lead to excessive on-street parking, to the detriment of highway safety and efficiency. As such the Council have sought to maintain minimum standards in certain cases. PlanningStatement 3 indicates that local circumstances should be taken into account when setting standards, and that proposed development should take a design led approach to the provision

pedestrian, cycle and vehicle friendly.”



10.31 Essex County Council in conjunction with the Essex Planning Officers Association prehensive review of car parking standards that a move to

dential planning) and maximu

t public highway, diminishing streetscape and potentially obstructing emergency and passenger transport vehicles.

concluded in its comminimum standards at trip origins (resi m standards for trip destinations is appropriate, acknowledging the fact that limited parking availability at trip origins does not necessarily discourage car ownership and can push vehicle parking onto the adjacen

Policy T8 – Parking Standards

The Council w isitor parking, to residential ill apply minimum parking standards, including vdevelo ent dards for residential pm . The Council will be prepared to relax such standevelopment within town centre locations and sites in close proximity to any of the District’s train s ons.tati

Whilst applying maximum parking standards for trip destinations, the Council will still require such d elop ision. Developers will be required to ev ment to include adequate parking provdemon ate , turning, loading and unloading of str that adequate provision for the parkingservice vehicles has been provided.



11 Economic Development n

Term

The Council are using the findings of the Employment Land

Visio

Short

• Study to ascertain future employment provision to meet the District’s needs, and to assist in identifying

and poorly located employment sites which are no longer

en

tion Plans for Rochford, Rayleigh and Hockley have been finalised and the

e

• The Joint Area Action Plan seeks to realise the airport’s potential as a driver for the sub-regional economy, providing significant employment opportunities and ensuring the quality of life for its residents and workers.

Medium Term

• Sustainable, well used and strategically located industrial estates are being protected and enhanced, where appropriate.

• New businesses are being supported at the most vulnerable points in their lifecycle through the development of an Eco-Enterprise Centre.

• The Eco-Enterprise Centre is a flagship, eco-friendly building creating an inward investment draw which is bringing new businesses into the area.

• Appropriate uses within the District’s commercial centres are being supported.

• London Southend Airport and its environs has become a driver for the sub-regional economy, providing a range of aviation and non aviation-related employment opportunities for the local population.

• A skills training academy within the vicinity of London Southend Airport and its environs has been established to provide high-skilled training in aviation-related industries.

• The Joint Area Action Plan supports and regulates the operations of London Southend Airport taking into consideration environmental and social effects, and residential amenity.

• A new airport terminal building at London Southend Airport has been completed and is operational following the implementation of an agreed surface access strategy.

alternative locations for old fit-for-purpose.

• The long term future of the wharfage at Baltic Wharf as an employment area has besecured.

• Area Acfirst phase of enhancement opportunities are being implemented.

• The potential of London Southend Airport and its environs is beginning to take shapthrough the provision of a Joint Area Action Plan in partnership with Southend Borough Council.



• A new employment park in the west ofnetworks has been developed which caters

the District with good links to the main access for a range of employment types in a

xible manner that adapts to changes in the economy.

• The new employment park is accompanied by a travel plan and is accessible to

•

h high-value,

Objec

2. ugh providing additional training and

ses, the range of local

employment opportunities in the District.

6. Implement Area Action Plans for the commercial centres of Rayleigh, Rochford and

7. Support projects within the District such as Cherry Orchard Jubilee County Park and

8. rotection of existing employment land in sustainable locations, and

9. e minimum amount of Green Belt necessary for additional employment

fle

Long Term

• Old, poorly located, “bad neighbour” industrial estates have been relocated to fit-for-purpose sites in sustainable locations which meet the needs of businesses andbenefits residential amenity.

workers by a range of transport options.

Over 3000 net additional jobs have been provided which meet local employment needs. A balance has been struck between the local workforce and jobs through theaviation-centred skills training academy providing local workers wittransferable skills.

tives

1. Ensure the growth of local employment opportunities and deliver an additional net 3000 local jobs by 2021.

Enhance the local skills base in the District throsupport.

3. Implement the London Southend Airport and Environs Joint Area Action Plan to realise the potential of this local resource.

4. Ensure the delivery of an Eco-Enterprise Centre which will provide valuable support for new businesses within the District.

5. Support the continued functioning and growth of small and medium sized businesand encourage flexible practices such as home-working to enhance

Hockley to enhance their attractiveness and increase spending retention within the District.

aid the delivery of priorities in the Economic Development Strategy.

Ensure the preallocate “bad neighbour” industrial estates for more appropriate uses, such as residential, to meet the District’s housing needs.

Allocate thland, as appropriate, and fully utilise the office space potential of Rayleigh and Hockley centres.



Introduction

The Council’s approach to economic development is focus11.1 ed on developing existing spatial patterns of employment, providing higher level employment, realising the

mic potential of London Southend Airport, and enhancing the skills of the District’s population.

11.2 dest workers’, the typically higher paid employees.

.3 e potential to provide significant economic

growth, including, but not exclusively, around aviation-related industries. Further to f the

11.4 ent allocations for the District were quantified in terms of the amount of land to be set aside for employment purposes. The East of England Plan

pecifies the number of jobs each sub-region must provide. Rochford District is within the Thames Gateway sub-region and must provide 3000 new jobs during the

the uthend Airport and the Council will produce a Joint Area

Action Plan with Southend Borough Council to ensure that the airport’s potential is

quality and traffic generation.

5 wo primary constraints are the rural nature

port connections. The Council’s approach to

11.6 istrict which are currently allocated

and the decline of the manufacturing sector. Some sites currently allocated

7

ent

econo

Rochford District is a generally prosperous part of the country, despite only a moshare of resident ‘knowledge

11 There are a number of opportunities for economic development in the District, forexample London Southend Airport has th

this, there is an entrepreneurial culture within the District; and the District is part oThames Gateway – a national priority for regeneration and growth.

In the past, employm

instead s

plan period. A significant proportion of these jobs can be accommodated as part ofgrowth around London So

fully realised, whilst having regard to environmental and amenity impacts such as noise, air

11. There are a multitude of physical constraints within the District that restrict opportunities for employment growth. The tof the District together with the limited transport links – both issues are more prevalent in the east of the District. The Council encourage rural diversification in the District and are seeking improvements to transrural diversification is set out in the Green Belt section of the Core Strategy and the approach to transportation issues in Transport.

There are a number of areas within the Dspecifically for employment purposes and are protected from development which would undermine their role in generating employment. The Council consider it necessary to review some of these allocations, particularly in light of changes to theeconomyfor employment are better utilised as residential or mixed-use, reducing the need to release Green Belt for housing, or, where appropriately located, alternative employment or community uses other than industrial ones.

11. The Council examined these issues in depth through the production of an Employment Land Study. The study provides the following:

• An assessment of current and future demand for different types of employmland outside of the London Southend Airport Joint Area Action Plan area.



• An assessment of the current supply of existing employment land including analysis of the quality of existing employment land allocated in the Rochford

as nd.

are based on differing levels of development at London Southend Airport.

11.9

District Replacement Local Plan 2006.

• An assessment of the appropriateness of potential additional sites for useemployment la

11.8 The Employment Land Study assesses demand for additional employment land against two scenarios, in addition to a base line scenario. The two scenarios

Low growth involving some additional supply of employment land at the airport wouldhave little impact on demand across the District. Higher growth increases both demand for additional allocations and supply for the District as a whole.

Demand m2 Supply m2 Balance m2 Balance ha

Base case

Office 18,161 0 -18,161 -2.27

Industrial 15,356 15,760 404 0.10

Total 33,517 15,760 -17,757 -2.17

Scenario A

Office 18,248 783 -17,378 -2.2

Industrial 15,901 16,685 1329 0.3

Total 34,149 17,468 -16,049 -1.8

Scenario B

Office 20,603 3,340 -17,263 -2.2

Industrial 21,042 19,707 -1,335 -0.3

Total 41,645 23,047 -18,599 -2.5 11.10

l

11.11 The Employment Land Study also recommends that any de-allocations of employment

Emplo ment Gr

11.12 The C employment growth in the District, and will support proposals that secure growth within high value businesses and which match local skills in order to reduce reliance on out-commuting.

Under all the Scenarios (including the Base Case) there is an additional net demand for employment land outside of the London Southend Airport Joint Area Action Plan area for office development of just over 2 ha and a sufficient land supply for industriauses.

land be compensated for by allocations of new employment sites.

y owth

ouncil will actively seek to maintain high and stable levels of economic and



11.13 opport d Airport art of the London Southend Airport and Environs Joint Area Action Plan evidence base). The study notes that the supply of

is curr strial, rather than office location, however, net additional demand for industrial land is very limited over the planning period. The study

11.14 Town centres have an important role to play in the District’s economic development.

has

identified the potential for additional office uses within Rayleigh town centre given its s ategic location. ic pot town yleigand Hockley is further acknowledged, particularly with regard to their redevelopment opportunities, through the provision of Area Action Plans. This is discussed in more detail in the Retail a Centres se on of this do

11.15 The Economic Development Strategy rly updated lect the localeconomic climate and local employment opportunities. It seea leagues to m opportuni evelopme the Districencourage a thriving local economy. Three key themes emerging from the Economic Developme though the Core Strategy, including increasing the skills b creasing com ness and e es, e a cohesiva econom mploymen .

11.16 The Economic Development Strategy the devel f key proje ch as Cherry Orchard Jubilee County Park strategy supports the enhancement of the District’s commercial centres to ensure their e ic vitality by g footfall a nding rete e District, gh t lopment of ion Plans. the Core supports e ic a ment growth, local skills en ent and the pment of a -Enterprise Centre in an appropriate locatia sting busines

age of training people and providing them with additional skills, increasing the proportion of highly skilled jobs in the District, and increasing people’s transferable

11.18 The Council also recognises the need to support the development of an Eco-ich would offer invaluable support and advice for early stage

able point in their lifecycle.

The Employment Land Study has identified the economic characteristics and unities for the District as a whole (excluding the area around London Southen which has been looked at in detail as p

employment land within the District is tight, with little available land. Rochford Districtently a stronger indu

recommends that an additional 2.2 hectares of land suitable for office use be allocated.

Rochford is recognised as a healthcare hub providing local employment opportunities and supporting the vitality of the town centre. Rayleigh town is the largest in theDistrict, supporting a range of activities, and the Employment Land Study

tr The econom ential of the centres of Ra h, Rochford

nd Town cti cument.

is regula to ref ks to work with partners

nt within nd col aximise ties for d t and

nt Strategy run ase, in petitive nhancing plac to ensur e pproach to ic and e t growth

supportsand Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project. The

opment o cts su

conomhe deve

increasinArea Act

nd speEqually

ntion in thStrategy

throuconom

nd employ hancem develo n Ecoon (Policy ED4) to provide support for new

nd exi ses.

11.17 The Council recognises the need to develop skills within the District to meet local employment opportunities and vice versa, and as such, the Council supports the development of a skills training academy to ensure a balance. This approach has the advant

skills whilst reducing out-commuting.

Enterprise Centre whbusinesses at the most vulner



11.19 The District is entrepreneurial in character, and small and medium sized busincontribute significantly to the area’s employment and economy. The Council supports the protection and enhancement of small and medium sized businesses, both within the existing industrial estates and town centres and those existing enterprises in ruralocations, which are important to the local economy. The Council also acknowledges the important role that home-working can play in the local economy through retaininemployment opportunities within the District, and the development of the Thirdthrough enhancing local volunteering opportunities as encouraged in the SustCommunity

esses

l

g Sector ainable

Strategy.

Policy ED1 – Employment Growth

The Council will encourage development that enables the economy to diversify and modernise through the growth of existing businesses and the creation of new enterprises providing high value employment, having regard to environmental issues and residential amenity.

The Lo cal Planning Authority supports the Economic Development Strategy, and will ensurethat pl trategy to be anning enables the spatial aspects of the Economic Development Sdelivered.

The Council will support:

• the development of Cherry Orchard Jubilee County Park;

• the development of Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project;

• the enhancement of the District’s commercial centres;

• the development of an Eco-Enterprise Centre;

• the development of a skills training academy;

• the enhancement of London Southend Airport;

• the development and growth of the voluntary sector;

• the development and growth of home-working; and

• the protection and enhancement of the role of small and medium sized businesses.

The economic potential of the District’s town centres, as well as social and environmental enhan velopment and implementation of Area Action cements, will be realised through the dePlans for Rochford, Rayleigh and Hockley.

An Eco ill -Enterprise Centre will be accommodated within an employment allocation which wsuppo ning of their lifecycle. rt the growth and prosperity of new businesses at the begin

The development of a skills training academy to enhance the skills base within the District and match local skills with locally available employment opportunities will be supported.



London Southend Airport and Environs

The East of England Plan identifies London Southend Airport as having an important role to play in the economic development of the area. London Southend Airport is split between Rochford and Southend, and, given its importance to the region, Rochford District and Southend on Sea Borough Councils are producing a Joint Area Action Plan in order to identify how the airport’s economic potential can be realised.

Southend on Sea Boro

11.20

11.21 ugh’s Core Strategy (December 2007) recognises the importance of London Southend Airport for the area. Strategic objective SO11 of this

infrastructure in the form of a railway station for the airport and investment in new facilities. The importance of the railway is fundamental to

increasing the attractiveness of the airport to potential airline operators as it increases in London (by

reducing the travel time to the airport). With this investment, the Airport Masterplan icat s at the airport to up

11.23 and currently has ation, passenger terminal and

11.24 egional catalyst for economic dful of concerns regarding the

ent and on the amenity r as part of the Joint Area

ter controls over the erat

11.25 e ai airport. The Council believe that there is also an opportunity for economic

h potential, it is recognised that the Council cannot be over-reliant upon one employment sector. As such, the growth of

s

strategy is to:

“Secure the regeneration of London Southend Airport to enable it to reach its potential to function as a local regional airport providing for significant new employment opportunities and improved surface access subject to environmental safeguards”

11.22 The Airport Masterplan 2005, prepared by London Southend Airport, sets out a vision for how the airport could grow towards being a regional airport based on using its current runway (length 1,610 metres), but with the provision of new passenger

passenger terminal

the size of the passenger catchment to include core markets with

ind es there is the potential to increase passenger movementto 2 million passengers by 2030.

The airport has been supported in phase one of its developmentplanning permission for the development of the train stnew hotel.

Whilst it is acknowledged has the potential to become a rgrowth and employment generation, the Council is minpotential impact of the airport’s development on the environmof local residents. These are issues that will be accounted foAction Plan which provides an opportunity to introduce tighop ion of the airport.

Th rport is surrounded by employment uses, many of which complement the

development through the expansion of other employment uses around the airport, including those that are not directly linked or reliant on the aviation industry. Thus, whilst the airport has economic growt

employment uses within the Joint Area Action Plan Area will not be focussed solely onaviation-related uses, although it is recognised that non aviation-related businessewould benefit from a thriving London Southend Airport.



11.26 Marrying local skills with jobs is necessary toand sustain the local economy. Through recognis

increase local employment opportunities ing the growth potential of the

.

airport, there is opportunity to provide high-tech skills training in aviation-related industries to meet local employment needs. The Council will support the development of a skills training academy, which can train the local workforce in an employment sector with growth potential and provide employees with valuable transferable skills

Policy ED2 – London Southend Airport

The C ort the development potential of London Southend Airport as a catalyst ouncil will suppfor economic growth and employment generation.

The C ea Action ouncil will work with Southend on Sea Borough Council to prepare a Joint ArPlan fo to see the r London Southend Airport and environs and will work with partnersairport d, whilst having regard to local amenity and environmental ’s economic potential realiseissues. The Joint Area Action Plan will enable the Council to regulate the operation of the airport through balancing noise and environmental issues with residential amenity.

The C o ouncil will support the development of a skills training academy around the airport tprovid et e training to increase and enhance aviation-related skills in the local area and to melocal employment needs.

Expan iation-sion of employment land to the north of the airport for the development of non avrelated industries will be supported to increase local employment opportunities within the District.

11.27 will enable existing businesses to diversify, modernise and grow and will protect employment land from alternative development that would reduce the quantity

11.28 nd in e are also close to housing and have a negative impact on

residential amenity.

11.29 tates and he

11.30

ployment Land Study, where appropriate.

Existing Employment Land

The Council

and/or quality of jobs in the District. Employment policies will maintain a degree of flexibility in order to ensure that sites can respond and adapt to changes in the economy.

However, the District contains several industrial estates which are looking tired aneed of investment. Som

The Council will consider the location and condition of existing industrial eswill promote the creation of new employment areas in more sustainable locations. TCouncil will encourage the relocation of existing “bad neighbour” uses to more appropriate locations.

The Council will protect appropriately located industrial estates which are well used and sustainable with the potential for continued economic and employment vitality, and support the improvements recommended in the Em



11.31 Existing employment land identified within the District includes:

• Star Lane Industrial Estate, Great Wakering

• Baltic Wharf, Wallasea Island

• Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate, Hockley

Industrial Estate, Rayleigh

e Council will protect the District’s employment land considered to be economically sustainable, good neighbour sites, which exist in harmony with surrounding land uses.

edevelopment where appropriate, the following sites will

is site o should be improved. It is centrally located, which makes it a

• Swaines Industrial Estate, Rochford

• Purdeys Industrial Estate, Rochford

• Riverside Industrial Estate, Rochford

• Stambridge Mills, Rochford

• Rochford Business Park, Cherry Orchard Way, Rochford

• Rawreth Industrial Estate, Rayleigh

• Imperial Park Industrial Estate, Rayleigh

• Brook Road

• Northern section of Aviation Way Industrial Estate, Southend

11.32 Th

Subject to enhancement or rbe protected:

• Baltic Wharf – This site adequately serves its current purpose in providing employment in port-related activities. Due to its poor strategic location and poor site access, infrastructure improvements should be made to improve its accessibility and to retain existing employment uses.

• Swaines Industrial Estate, Ashingdon Road – This is a fit-for-purpose industrial estate which is in a good condition. The existing uses should be retained.

• Purdeys Industrial Estate – This is a fit-for-purpose industrial estate which is in a good condition. The site should be maintained and, if possible, expanded.

• Riverside Industrial Estate – The quality of existing building stock at this very poor and sstrategically good site for additional office use to meet future requirements.

• Rochford Business Park – This is a new site in very good condition with goodaccess to the highway network.



• Imperial Park Industrial Estate – This is a fit-for-purpose industrial estate with good access to amenities, which is in a good condition. The existing uses

– Although the existing building stock quality is poor there is potential for redevelopment which should incorporate high quality

is site is in adequate condition but could ation and expansion which will be

end Airport and Environs Joint Area

for existing employment land sites which d “bad neighbours”, or where an alternative use

allocated, the accommodated at

ites.

e site has good road access at a site urpose, however, it has poor strategic

g stock is very poor. As such, the uses and the existing employment land

ment uses, as well as a range of community and leisure

• d

1 .1 h

should be retained.

• Brook Road Industrial Estate

office accommodation.

• Aviation Way Industrial Estate – Thbe improved through enhancement, intensificpromoted as part of the London SouthAction Plan.

The Council will seek alternative uses are considered poorly locatewould be more appropriate. In cases where such land is reCouncil will seek to ensure existing businesses can be re-appropriate alternative employment s

• Star Lane Industrial Estate (5.8 ha) – Thlevel and it is adequately serviced for its paccess and the quality of existing buildinCouncil will reallocate this site for other will be relocated elsewhere within the District.

• Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate (4.6 ha) –In recent years there has been increasing pressure for non-industrial uses on the estate to be allowed in place of employment uses. The site is well placed in proximity to the centre of Hockley and would be more appropriately utilised as a mixed use development incorporating employuses more appropriate to its town centre location. Alternative land will be required to be allocated to accommodate employment uses that may become displaced as a result of redevelopment.

Stambridge Mills (1.8 ha) – This site is currently poor quality and is not in use. Whilst it could be safeguarded for light industrial use, it has been identifiedwithin the Urban Capacity Study as a suitable site for housing allocation, anas such, the existing employment land should be reallocated. Issues around flood risk must be resolved prior to any development of this site.

• Rawreth Industrial Estate (5.9 ha) – Existing building stock is of poor quality and the site has particular environmental issues. The site has been identified in the Urban Capacity Study as suitable for housing use, and as such, the site willbe reallocated for housing. The existing employment land will be relocated elsewhere within the District.

The allocation of the above employment areas will entail the de-allocation of a total of 8 a of employment land.



Policy ED3 – Existing Employment Land

Existing employment sites which are well used and sustainable will be protected from uses that wo d unul dermine their role as employment generators.

The Council w oyment land within the District, but will reallocate land ill protect existing emplat Star Lane Industrial Estate, Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate, Stambridge Mills and Rawre Induth strial Estate for appropriate alternative uses. Such uses may include a proportion of employment uses. Land capable of accommodating the businesses and industries that currently occupy these sites but which would not be appropriate to be incorporated into their redevelopment will be allocated to more appropriate and sustainable locations.

In the case o f Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estate the nature of any redevelopment will bedetermined through the Hockley Area Action Plan and will include employment uses.

The Council w ll retained employment sites and will ill support improvements to the quality of awork with partners to maintain their viability by ensuring adequate infrastructure is in place. In particu r, thela Council will require improvements to the highways serving Baltic Wharf in order to sustain employment in this rural part of the District.

Future Em11.33 y

o empwould 2.2 hestrategStudy There such, tthis appropriate location to

11.34 potent with goexpanSouthe

11.35 emploIn addcomm s local s

11.36 roposals must ensure that the water supply necessary

for the development can be supplied sustainably (and without adverse effects on European Sites).

ployment Allocations The Employment Land Study has identified that there is generally a sufficient supplf loyment land for industrial use within the District, but that any de-allocation

have to be compensated for. The study also identified a need for an additional ctares of office space. Land to the west of Rayleigh is the most suitable ic location for additional employment land provision and the Employment Land recommends that land in this location comes forward for office development. is a recognised deficit in adequate brownfield sites within the District, and as he Council will reallocate the minimum quantity of Green Belt land necessary in

meet this local need.

The industrial estate at Aviation Way is also a good strategic location with the ial to develop and provide additional capacity for non aviation-related industriesod infrastructure links. The potential enhancement, intensification and

sion of Aviation Way Industrial Estate will be explored within the London nd Airport and Environs Joint Area Action Plan.

It is also important to take into account environmental and social considerations. New yment areas will be directed away from areas of landscape or ecological value. ition, new employment developments must be accessible to all sections of the unity by a range of transport opportunities and should be of a type that meetkills.

In line with the Habitats Regulations and in consultation with NE, EA and Essex and Suffolk Water, development p




11.37 The Employment Land Study recommends that, in order to satisfy d west of Rayleigh, which is currently allocated

nt use. This will principally be a mix of high

ted.

l focus

a strategically sound place to develop office

es t obvious benefits are usually

inclusive rents and short term tenancies which help businesses to avoid longer term financial commitments. With communal areas, access to meetings rooms and a

ses are able to bring prospective clients to quality

11.40 as

n

point on, guidance, mentoring and

11.42

dly leases and meeting certain environmental standards, their premises

the additional office demand in the District, a portion of lanas Green Belt, be developed for employmequality office and industrial space. This approach should ensure that the Green Belt allocation west of Rayleigh is, on the whole, still protec

11.38 The rationale for allocating land in Rayleigh is that it is well connected to London by road on the A127 and it is an ideal location for strategic employment development in the District. Employment Land Study research shows that the west of the District is the most desirable location for employment mainly due to its strategic access. This location also relates well to the A127 enterprise corridor, which is a sub-regionafor employment growth and infrastructure investment. The area will consolidate its position as a strategic office location during the planning period and a new development within Rochford District is employment stock.

11.39 The Council will support the development of an Eco-Enterprise Centre. Enterprise, or business incubation, centres provide an ideal, structured environment in which new businesses can grow. They differ from other types of business support because they offer comprehensive, responsive and customised services to early stage businessat the most vulnerable point in their lifecycle. The mos

shared reception, start-up businespremises and give a highly professional appearance. Business support services, seminars and training can be provided on site, making them far easier to access and lessening staff time out of the office to train.

The Centre's support services are usually provided by an internal team as well sought from external networks and partner agencies. Incubation is a resource-intensive activity not intended to support businesses indefinitely. Incubation serviceshelp businesses to survive the particularly difficult first few years so they can move owith increased chances of sustainability.

11.41 The Council believes that the establishment of an eco-friendly Enterprise Centre would help to reduce the number of business closures in the District and help to educate forming businesses of their environmental responsibilities. The Centre, which will be a flagship, eco-friendly building, will also act as a much needed inward investment draw, bringing new businesses to the area. It would become a focalfor businesses in the District seeking access to informatiinvolvement with local business networks.

The Council will work with landlords to develop appropriate grow-on space in the District. The Council will do this by developing service level agreements and for landlords prepared to meet the necessary criteria, which will include operating business frienwill be added to a list of recommended grow-on space for businesses moving on fromthe Centre. This will help to make best use of and improve local, vacant stock, and keep the businesses supported operating within the Rochford District.



11.43 In order to achieve this, the Council intend to secure public funding which in turn will be used to lever private sector investment. In terms of delivering services on an ongoing basis, the Council will work in partnership with other key stakeholders and partners whose remit is to support and develop businesses in the District.

11.44 The Enterprise Centre will be incorporated into employment allocations or an Area

Action Plan that includes increased employment opportunities.



Policy ED4 – Future Employment Allocations

The Council will allocate 18 ha of industrial land to compensate for de-allocations as per Policy eet the ED3. New employment allocations will be in better strategic locations to mneeds of businesses, be in accessible locations to the local population, and at the same time minimise any negative impact on residential amenity. The Council will direct the majority of future Southend Airport. employment to the west of the District and in proximity to LondonSome industrial land will be allocated in proximity to Great Wakering to provide local employment and mitigate the de-allocation of Star Lane Industrial Estate.

In addition, the Council will allocate a further 2.2 ha for office development in order to meet projected demand. This office space will be predominantly directed to Rayleigh and Hockley, with exact locations and quantum to be determined through Area Action Plans for the respective centres. The Council will adopt a sequential approach, prioritising Rayleigh and Hockley centres with any demand that can not be accommodated in these centres being incorporated into a new employment allocation to the west of Rayleigh.

1. West of Rayleigh

The Council will allocate land to the south of London Road, Rayleigh to accommodate a new employment park capable of accommodating businesses displaced by the redevelopment of Rawreth Industrial Estate as well as additional office space. It will have the following characteristics:

• Able to accommodate employment uses displaced by residential redevelopment of Rawreth Lane Industrial Estate;

• Be suitable for high-quality office and industrial development;

• A versatile layout and design that can accommodate a range of uses and can be adapted to meet changes in the economy;

• Accessible by a range of transport options; and

• Good links to the A130 and A127.

2. North of London Southend Airport

The Council will allocate land to the north and west of London Southend Airport for employment uses to compensate for de-allocations elsewhere in the District.

The Council will work with the private sector to secure the delivery of an Eco-Enterprise Centre within a new business park incorporating employment uses. The Centre will provide invaluable support for early stage businesses and will be built to high environmental standards through meeting the ‘Excellent’ BREEAM rating for sustainable, carbon-neutral construction, reducing energy costs and promoting sustainable construction. The development of an Eco-Enterprise centre will be subject to a feasibility study.

The Council will also encourage the development of employment generating uses within existing settlements, particularly town centres, where appropriate.

3. South of Great Wakering

The Council will allocate land to the south of Great Wakering for a new strategically located employment park. This new employment facility will be capable of accommodating businesses displaced from Star Lane Industrial Estate.



12 Retail and Town Centres

Vision

Short Term

• Area Action Plans for Rochford, Rayleigh and Hockley town centres have been produced and adopted. The plans provide a clear framework, developed havinregard to the results of community involvement, to guide the regene

g ration of these

new retail development has been directed to Rochford, Rayleigh

• antly reduced, with sh imply due to the provision of

ironment.

Objec ves

1. s of Rochford, Rayleigh and

ayleigh and Hockley ensuring they are vital and es and activities for all.

centres.

Medium/Long Term

• The District’s town centres are vibrant places containing a range of shops, services and facilities that meet local demand.

• The vast majority ofand Hockley. Some additional retail has been provided within the District’s smaller settlements and within residential areas outside of the designated centres which provides convenient, accessible top-up shopping for local communities and reduces the need to travel.

The leakage of retail expenditure outside of the District has been significoppers attracted to the District’s town centres not s

retail, but because of the range of activities and the quality of the env

ti

To direct retail development to the District’s town centreHockley.

2. To enhance the centres of Rochford, Rvibrant places containing a range of us

3. To reduce the leakage of retail expenditure out of the District.

4. To ensure that village and neighbourhood shops provide a service for local communities, particularly for those with limited access to transport.



Retail

12.1 Thtow

e Council approach to retail strategy seeks to strengthen the role of the District’s n centres, whilst ensuring that village services are sustained.

08 Retail and Leisure Study indicates that there is a significant leakage of retail

12.3 ience shopping (e.g. food), 17.8% of main food shopping is retained within

pared to 54.4% of top-up shopping. This pattern is not replicated gh retains the most convenience shopping,

. er rates of retail leakage.

.4

12.5 jority of spending going out of the District

12.6 it at intains its current market share of spending – and continues to provide for the ho shop within the District – by ensuring there is adequate retail space

reduce leakage of expenditure out of the

istrict’s centres.

7 Planning for Sustainable Economic Growth (PPS4)) states that Local Authorities should quantify

h n centre

locations. The District supports this approach as a means of ensuring the vitality and vibrancy of Rayleigh, Rochford and Hockley town centres.

12.8 The District contains one established out-of-town retail park – the Airport Retail Park located to the east of the airport and abutting a residential area of Southend Borough to the south. Although adjacent to a residential area, the retail park still maintains many of the characteristics traditionally associated with its more isolated contemporaries, namely a concentration on the sale of bulky, comparison goods and a layout that is unwelcoming to all unless arriving by car. Further retail development and intensification at this location is not only considered unsustainable, but would also undermine efforts to enhance the vitality of the District’s town centres.

12.2 The 20spending out of the District, with the majority of shopping by Rochford District resident’s undertaken outside of the District.

Shopping patterns vary across the District and by type of goods bought. With regards to conventhe District comconsistently across the District. Rayleiretaining 37.8% and 75.9% of main food shopping and top-up shopping, respectivelyOther areas of District experience high

12 The majority of spending goes to Southend, Shoeburyness and Benfleet. Distance is not the only factor, with residents prepared to travel further to these areas than other potential retail destinations within the District.

There is an even greater leakage of spending in relation to comparison shopping (e.g. clothes, electrical goods etc) with the vast mainto Southend in particular, together with a considerable amount from the west of the District leaking out to Basildon.

Retail spending is projected to grow and it is important that the District ensures least mapeople wallocated. In addition, whilst it is to be expected that a significant proportion of spending will be attracted out of the district to regional centres such as Southend, the Council recognises there is an opportunity toDistrict by making town centres more attractive to shoppers, enhancing their vitality and vibrancy, and concentrating retail development within the D

12. National policy on town centres (Planning Policy Statement 4:

the need for additional retail development and then identify locations for sucdevelopment by applying a sequential approach which prioritises tow



Policy RTC1 – Retail in town centres

The Council will seek to enhance Rochford, Hockley and Rayleigh town centres’ market share of retail spending through the following actions:

• Enhancement of Rochford, Hockley and Rayleigh town centres making them more attractive places for shoppers to visit.

• Directing retail development towards the town centres of Rayleigh, Rochford and Hockley to ensure a strong mix of retail uses focussed within the respective town centres.

Policy RTC2 – Sequential approach to retail development

The Council will apply a sequential approach to the location of retail development which prioritises the town centres of Rochford, Rayleigh and Hockley.

When applying the sequentia t, the settlements of Rayleigh, l approach to retail developmenRochford and Hockley will be acknowledged as distinct areas – retail needs in one settle ent cannot be met by development in others. m

Where town centre locations are not available, edge-of-centre locations are to be utilised with priority given to locations which have good links to the town centre and are accessible by a range of transport options.

Small-scale retail development will be encouraged in out-of-centre residential areas and village ine s where such development will serve a local day-to-day need and will not undermthe role of the District’s town centres.

Retail development in out-of-town locations, including intensification of uses in existing out-of-town retail parks is considered inappropriate and is not supported.

Village and Neighbourhood Shops

A great many shops and services are located outside of the established town cand dotted throughout residential areas in the District's towns and villages.

These perform a vital role in providing convenience goods a

12.9 entres

12.10 nd services to meet people's day-to-day needs. The Retail and Leisure Study found that village shops

12.11 lifeline for

of

were particular important in providing local top-up food shopping.

The location of such units within residential areas means that they can be easily reached on foot, reducing the need to travel. Local facilities also provide athose without access to public or private transport. In addition to the aforementioned benefits, the provision of village shops and services can also help maintain a senseplace and community within the settlement. The protection of local shops and facilities is thus, for the foresaid reasons, considered to be crucial.



Policy RTC3 – Village and Neighbourhood Shops

The Council will protect existing retail uses within residential areas outside of the defined town centres.

The Council will encourage and support the provision of additional small-scale retail develop entm in conjunction with new residential development, as long as such retail development will not undermine the role of the District’s town centres.

The los of su s ch retail uses within residential areas will only be permitted where it has beenclearly demon ed strated that a retail use in the location is not viable and that the proposalternative use will still offer a service to the local community that meets day-to-day needs.

Town Centres 12.12 There are three Town Centres in the District: Rayleigh, Rochford and Hockley.

12.13 Rayleigh provides the most comprehensive range of facilities, and is classified as a

r with score based on level of facility

Minor District Centre in Management Horizons Europe’s UK Shopping Index (2008). Rochford and Hockley are ranked as Local and Minor Local, respectively.

12.14 Table RTC1 below shows the ranking, togetheprovision, the District’s centres compared to centres within the sub-region. The ranking relates to approximately 7,000 centres (1 being the centre with the greatest retail provision).

Table RTC1 – Ranking of District and other local centres (Management Horizon’s UK Shopping Index 2008)

Centre Score Rank 2008 Location Grade

Southend-on-Sea 254 54 Major Regional

Basildon 227 79 Regional

Rayleigh 57 600 Minor District

Pitsea 55 629 Minor District

Wickford 44 816 Minor District

Billericay 44 816 Minor District

Laindon 26 1364 Local

Rochford 20 1716 Local

Hockley 7 3321 Minor Local 12.15

omplement a shopping centre, long stretches of 'dead' non-retail frontage and a high percentage of non-retail uses throughout the centre will undermine its role and vitality.

As part of ensuring the vitality and long-term viability of the town centres, it is crucial that they contain a high proportion of retail uses. Whilst a proportion of non-retail uses (e.g. banks, building societies, restaurants and pubs) will c



12.16 As such, the Council will seek to control the amocore areas of town centres. It is considered app

unt of non-retail use permitted within ropriate to define primary and

hin secondary shopping frontage areas. It is ing and

but

positive approach to the residential conversion of buildings above ground floor level, tensification within town centres, and by incorporating residential t into large town centre schemes. This also has the advantage of

areas,

12.18 r proportion n

in

eigh, although one is located outside the town centre.

12.19 esignated as a Conservation A praisals and Management Plans which assess their quality, and the proposed actions to be undertaken to ensure their protection and enhancement f Place section of this document for more details) and there are a rf

12.20 The Retail and Leisure Study noted tha yleigh’ tre comprised a higher proportion of comparison shopping un an the ge, and included national multiple retailers. Convenience shopping, retail service sector, financial and business uses are also well rep nted in he study, however, identified a lack of l re uses, wh clude ightclubs, restaurants, bingo halls, cinemas etc.

12.21 In terms of the provision of floorspace relative to spending, the Retail and Leisure Study found that there was no capacity for additional convenience floorspace but c le capacity for add al compar orsp

12.22 Rayleigh town centre has a number of strengths: a strong convenience and comparison sector; a high amenity built environment; low proportion of vacant units;

secondary shopping frontage areas within town centres based on their existing characteristics and seek to maintain retail uses within these, albeit with a more relaxed approach to non-retail witimportant that town centres not only offer an enticing range of shops but also apleasant environment in which to shop. The Council are committed to maintainenhancing the character and attractiveness of its town centres.

12.17 People make town centres vibrant. The Council will encourage people to visit town centres, by ensuring they are attractive, accessible and contain a variety of uses, the Council will also enable people to live in the District’s town centres by taking a

residential indevelopmenreducing the need to develop greenfield sites or intensify non-central residentialwhilst providing adequate residential development.

Rayleigh Town Centre

Rayleigh is the principal centre in the District and maintains a much greateof its convenience and comparison shopping than any other area of the District, evedrawing in spending from other areas around the District. Much of this retention relation to food shopping is down to the presence of two relatively large conveniencestores within Rayl

The town centre environment is positive and a portion of it is drea. The Council has produced Conservation Area Ap

(see Character oange of actions proposed

or Rayleigh.

2008 t Ra s town cenits th national avera

rese the centre. Teisu ich in s pubs, bars, n

onsiderab ition ison flo ace.

high retail demand; and a range of unit sizes thereby catering for a range of retailers,including national multiples; and it has undergone recent town centre improvement works.



12.23 In addition, the Employment Land Study has identified Rayleigh town centre as havingpotential to accommodate additional office space, due to its strategic location.

Given the current state of Rayleigh town centre and its ability to meet projected demand, radical changes to the town centre are not considered necessary. TheCouncil will explore the above issues and potential in detail through the developof an Area Action Plan for Rayleigh centre.

12.24 future ment

Policy RTC4 – Rayleigh Town Centre

The C ouncil will ensure that Rayleigh town centre’s role as the District’s principal town centreis reta ined through the production and implementation of an Area Action Plan which deliversthe following:

• Improved accessibility to and within the town centre

• A safe and high quality environment for residents and visitors

• A predominance of retail uses, including intensification of existing retail uses, which cater for a variety of needs

• A range of evening leisure uses

• Promotes provision of community facilities, including exploration of potential locations for a healthcare centre and, if appropriate delivery of such facility

The Council will work with landowners and its partners to deliver the Area Action Plan.

Rochf

12.25 strong convenience sector, the Retail and

12.26

12.27 national multiple retailer and the majority of n rs

ord.

ord Town Centre

Rochford town centre is the second largest within the District and is classified as a local centre. Although it has a relativelyLeisure Study found the comparison sector to be limited. There is a significant leakage of spending out of the Rochford area for all forms of retailing.

Rochford town centre is part of the Rochford Conservation Area and its unique character and layout is an asset.

Rochford town centre contains only oneunits are of a small size, limiting their attractiveness to retailers. The presence of aadditional national multiple would act as an ‘anchor’ and draw in additional shoppeand retailers. The October 2007 Focus Report indicated that since the date of thereport, only four retailers expressed demand to locate within Rochf

12.28 Notwithstanding the above, and the fact that there is a limited retention of spending, the Retail and Leisure Study has identified capacity for additional convenience and comparison retail floor space.



12.29 Work, including community involvement, has been undertaken in preparation for a masterplan for Rochford town centre. This, in conjunction with the Retail and Leisure Study, has identified a number of opportunities for the town centre.

12.30

connectivity and access around the centre particularly from the train station.

d for parking. The considerable potential for town

s over the impact on local businesses of the loss of parking and changes will n be made about the

ure

12.32 add rea beyond the

re cimprov

12.33 evio ses have identified demand for community tre

ea aarea, a

uare. The introduction of evening activities within the town centre would also increase natural surveillance and help quell concerns regarding anti-social behaviour in

The unique, historic character is one such opportunity that can be utilised to encourage visitors to the town centre. There are a number of opportunities to enhance this and, at the same time, improve

12.31 The market square is currently usecentre enhancements through the pedestrianisation of the market square, thereby providing a focal point for town centre activities and encouraging a local ‘café culture’ complementary to other uses with the town, has been identified. There are, however, concernhave to be considered carefully before any final decision cafut of the market square.

In ition, the current town centre boundary covers a considerable akey retail area. It is felt that the reduction of this will focus future retail development mo entrally, reducing the dilution of retail activity within the town centre and

ing its vitality and vibrancy.

Pr us community involvement exercifacilities. Current policies are restrictive towards non-retail uses within the town cenar nd, whilst it is important that retail uses continue to dominate the town centre

more permissive approach to A3 (restaurant, cafes etc) and A4 (bars, pubsetc), would benefit the town centre, particularly if focussed around the market sq

Rochford.

12.34 The Council will explore the above issues and potential in detail through the development of an Area Action Plan for Rochford centre.

Policy RTC5 – Rochford Town Centre

The Council will produce an Area Action Plan for Rochford town centre which delivers the following:

• A safe and high quality environment for residents

• A market square area that encourages visitors

• Enhanced retail offer for Rochford

• A range of evening leisure activities

• Improves accessibility to and within the town centre

• Promotes youth community facilities




Hockley Town Centre

Hockley is the smallest town centre in the District and there is less re12.35 tention of spending within the Hockley area than Rayleigh or Rochford.

12.36

12.37 and a well maintained pedestrian environment. The size of Hockley itself and its location relative to the larger town

12.38

ble

e the retail and leisure offer of the town centre whilst

12.39 te, in particular, has been identified as a potential y to Hockley centre and the train station,

12.40

As with Rochford, Hockley retains very little expenditure.

It has a good mix of independent traders

centres of Rochford, Rayleigh and Southend, lessen its attractiveness to national multiples.

The Retail and Leisure study indicates that Hockley has great potential. Hockley has been identified as having a need for additional convenience floorspace, and with the housing target in the area; the Council will look at the opportunities for more valuaand appropriate uses of the industrial land between Hockley railway station and the town centre. This would enhancat the same time provide an opportunity for a better linkage between the centre and the station.

Eldon Way/Foundry Industrial Estaopportunity site given its location in proximitand the potential for industrial uses to be accommodated in more appropriate locations within the District, as examined within the Economic Development section of the Core Strategy.

The Council will explore the above issues and potential in detail through the development of an Area Action Plan for Hockley centre.

Policy ckley Town Centre RTC6 – Ho

The Council will produce an Area Action Plan for Hockley town centre which delivers the following:

• A safe and high quality environment for residents

• Enhanced retail offer for Hockley

• Redevelopment of Eldon Way/Foundry for a variety of uses more appropriate for a town centre location, including residential, commercial, employment and leisure

• A public space within a defined centre

• Improved connectivity between retail focus and train station

• Redevelopment of industrial uses for retail, leisure and residential development

• Green landscaping along Main Road, Spa road and Southend Road to enhance the visual amenity

The Council w ers to deliver the Area Action Plan. ill work with landowners and its partn



13 Implementation, Delivery and Monitoring

Polic Implementation and Delivery Ry Potentia l Risk isk Mitigation Monitoring Housing H1 – The efficient u land for ho an

enppf reheheramlop

w seur pria

forwar

Re n ev

exi em pre s eve aare ere

v co

ers, Engers tbility d wut t

r o n

l i ncluded

in the Annual Monitoring Report

i nsity of r l s.

t a g List e y

The propo

developedthe Council

appropriate,esidential

he nationwhere nec

tion developed on previously

and and

as deve

l Sinssar

f dwelli

s recorwill be i

or other reporting mechanism, as s the deopment

Data will be monitored according le Data.

se ofusing

ThusdeexiresintarelanDeexma

Thdeprosite

e Coe of velostingistin

ensifas, td asveloercisnag

e Covelovides co

unciapprped l setg thicatihro parpmeing eme

uncipersrs tome

l willopriand tleme inaon ough tt of tnt F

devent.

l will and ens

prioritise ate previo

d land ts, whilropriatesidenti allocat Local eworkment

ork withrvice e approd.

the usly withist al ion o

and

n

f

by

te

side

stingviou not

tial don appropriate sites wit

settlly d

deliv

elopme

ents orloped ld.

nts hin on nd

Sites hafollowingdevelopagents. developdeliveraplace anthrougho

e been identified nsultation with land owners and agement with o ascertain of sites has takenill continue he plan period.

gs

ded by



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Housing H2 – ons

ial and

landowners, agents and developers to ensure that

are

easible.

s will pers

he Local Development Framework, guided by the Council’s development management.

The phasing will be controlled through the development management process and delivered by working with developers and landowners to ensure there is a constant five-year supply of available land that will be delivered.

ntial envelope pre-2021 in the identified general areas are

Locatio tified following consultation with developers, land owners and

nd the

timing of the release of land for extensions to the residential envelope to ensure a constant five-year supply of land. In the event that development in identified areas can no longer be delivered, alternative sites scheduled to be developed later will be brought forward.

As part of nitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate, the

Data will be monitored according

Extensito residentenvelopes phasing

The Council will work with local

development in these areas isviable. The ‘call for sites’ exercise has ascertained that there are sites within these locations which developerswilling and able to develop.

The Council has worked with service providers and its partners to ensure that development within theselocations is f

The completion of dwellingbe carried out by develohaving regard to the Council’s adopted policies in t

Extensions to the reside

not delivered in time, and there is not a constant five-year housing supply.

ns have been iden

agents. Engagement with developers to ascertain deliverability of sites within locations has taken place awill continue throughout plan period.

A flexible approach will be maintained with regards to the

the Annual Mo

Council record planning permissions granted and completions of residential development. This is translated into a housing trajectory which includes an assessment of the five-year supply of land.

the national Single Data List where necessary.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Housing H3 – Extension to residential envelopes post-2021

until

gh

f e

s in the work,

nt.

Extensions to the residential envelope post-2021 in the identified general areas are not delivered, and there is not a constant five year housing supply.

r

nstant

21 allocated sites

ost-

Development Framework Process.

he situation through the Local

r

Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.

Sites within the identified general locations will not be allocated for development post-2021. Such sites will be prevented from development until an appropriate time throuthe development managementprocess.

Post-2021, the completion odwellings will be carried out bydevelopers having regard to thCouncil’s adopted policieLocal Development Frameguided by the Council’s development manageme

Extensions to the residential envelope pre-2021 in the identified general areas are not delivered, and there is not a constant five year housing supply.

A flexible approach will be maintained with regards to the timing of the release of land foextensions to the residential envelope to ensure a cofive year supply of land.

As such, some sites may be brought forward from post-20allocations, ifpre-2021 are not delivered.

Where post-2021 sites are brought forward for development, it is anticipated that pre-2021 sites which were not delivered through earlier phasing, will be delivered p2021. However, if there are notenough deliverable sites, then the Council will review the situation through the Local

As part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate, the Council record planning permissions granted and completions of residential development.

The Council will monitor the delivery of residential development and review t

Development Framework processto ensure a constant five yeahousing supply.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Housing H4 – Affordable Housing

Affordable housing will bedelivered in conjunction with developers and Registered Social Landlords. Developers will be required to enter into alegal agreement with the Council to ensure that the requisite proportion of affordable units

come forward as part of a

of

lows

a ng

n. y

an

have regard to the potential for affordable housing to be provided.

wing the er the

sing is

according development.

The policy makes allowances to ensure that this approach does not undermine the deliverability of schemes.

The affordable housing requirement renders development financially unviable, preventing the delivering of housing.

Insufficient levelsaffordable housing are delivered to meet need.

The Core Strategy policy alfor a flexible approach to affordable housing to ensure it does not render schemes undeliverable.

The Core Strategy seeks proportion of affordable housiin line with the recommendations of the Strategic Housing Market Assessment for the sub-regioThe Local Planning Authoritand the Council’s Housing Strategy will work with Registered Social Landlords and developers to ensure an adequate supply of affordable housing.

In determining specific sites fordevelopment through the Allocations Development PlDocument, the Council will

As part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate, the Council record the tenure of dwellings completed, alloCouncil to ascertain whethtarget for affordable houbeing met. Data will be monitoredthe national Single Data List where necessary.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Housing H5 – Dwelling Types

The mix of dwelling types wdelivered by developers and guided by the Council’s development management.

ill be s ed.

ained Council’s Housing

e development ix will

e

Developers wish to implement dwelling typethat do not meet local ne

The Council will ensure that developers deliver a mix of dwelling types within new developments that meet local need. This will be ascertthrough the Strategy team. The Housing Strategy team will engage with developers in thprocess. Dwelling type mbe regulated through the development management process. Pre-application advice will be available for developers.

The size of dwellings (in terms of the number of bedrooms they contain) is recorded as part of thAnnual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate, enabling an assessment of the mix of dwellingtypes coming forward.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Housing H6 – Lifetime Homes

The delivery of dwellings meeting the Lifetime Homes Standard will be through developers, guided by the Council’s development management.

The policy makes allowances to ensure that this approach does not undermine the deliverability of schemes.

all new

undeliverable.

he

Plan

al for ed.

consistently shown that the requirement makes schemes undeliverable then the Council may review the situation through the Local Development Framework Process.

The requirement for dwellings to meet the Lifetime Homes Standard makes the scheme

A flexible approach will be maintained to ensure that where it can be shown that trequirement threatens the viability of a scheme, then the Council will require a proportionof units to comply with the standard.

In determining specific sites for development through the Allocations Development Document, the Council will have regard to the potentilifetime homes to be deliver

If it is

The Council will monitor the proportion of dwellings meeting the Lifetime Homes Standard as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

H7 – Gypsy and Traveller Accommodation

Gypsy and Travellers sites will be allocated by the Council but developed by private landowners. The development of sites will be guided by the Council’s development management.

Allocated sites are not implemented.

The Council will allocate Gypsy and Travellers pitches through the Allocations Development Plan Document and will engage with representative groups to ensure that such allocations are suitable.

The Council will monitor the granting of planning permission for Gypsy and Travellers sites, and their development, as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Character of Place CP1 – Design The design of developme

be guided by the Council’s development management.

Developers will be expecteutilise, where relevant, tfollowing as gu

nts will

d to he

idance for good

Village Design Statements;

• the Essex Design Guide; and

• the Urban Place Supplement

consent.

s

will provide clear

on

ismissed. design:

• Supplementary Planning Documents;

•

Developments whose design does not reflect character of place or gooddesign as recommended within supporting documents are granted

The Council will work with developers at the pre-application stage to ensure that developments reflect the identity of individual settlementand promote good design.

Supplementary planning documentsguidance to decision makers and applicants as to quality of design that will be required.

This will be regulated through the development management process.

The success of the implementation of this policy will be monitored by recording the proportion of appeals of the Council’s decision to refuse planning applications based haracter of place which are c

d

Lack of involvement from key external partners, including service providers.

e as

The Council will work closely with its partners to implement the actions recommended in the plans. The Council has and will maintain regular dialoguwith key stakeholders such parish councils, Essex County Council and neighbouring local authorities.

CP2 – Conservation Areas

Recommendations within the Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plans will be implemented through a collaborative approach with the Council’s partners, and seeking legal advice and acquiring

The need to accommodate new development harms character of Conservation Areas.

that any new development respects the character of such areas.

The Conservation Area Appraisal and Management Plans will be reviewed and updated on a regular basis to ensure Conservation Area boundaries are preserved and continue to enhance the local character.

consent from the Secretary of State.

The Council will have regard to the guidance and advice in the plans when making decisions affecting Conservation Areas, ensuring



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Character of Place CP3 – Local List The Local List Supplementary

Planning Document is currently being updated, and will be finalised and adopted. Buildings

cil’s

ction l list

nd ing it

d

lementary

ate to

. listed within this document will be protected by the Coundevelopment management.

Lack of statutory protefor buildings on the locaresults in loss of, or unsympathetic additions to,buildings of local architectural or historicalvalue.

The Council will maintain aupdate the Local List ensuris robust, having regard to consultation with stakeholders and ensuring it comprises buildings worthy of protection whose protection is justified.

The Council will work with theowners of buildings on the Local List and provide them with guidance and advice on how to ensure the building’s character is retained.

The impact of proposed development on a locally listebuilding will be considered as part of the development management process.

The Local List SuppPlanning Document will be updated on a regular basis and the buildings contained within itexamined as part of the updensure they are being protected



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Green Belt GB1 – Green Belt Protection

The Green Belt will be protectethrough the allocation of land and regulated through the development management process.

d

cal

n

development within the Green Belt will be recorded in the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

Pressure on the District to accommodate additional development results in the loss of Green Belt.

The Local Development Framework will set out a robust strategy for the delivery of all development required, based on sound evidence. By allocating land for the development the District is required to accommodate, the Council will be able to ensure that land allocated in the LoDevelopment Framework as Green Belt remains protectedfrom inappropriate development.

The protection of the Green Belt will be regulated through the development managementprocess.

The proportion of the District allocated as Metropolitan GreeBelt will be assessed in production of the Allocations Development Plan Document. The outcome of planning applications for inappropriate

GB2 – Rural Diversification and Recreational Uses

Rural diversification will be undertaken by landowners and enabled through a more permissive approach to the determination of planning applications.

Rural enterprise is restricted by the need to ensure the character and openness of the Green Belt is protected.

development management framework balances the needs of rural businesses with the need to preserve the character and openness of the Green Belt.

The number of change of use applications permitted on land designated as Green Belt, and the nature of those uses, will indicate whether rural diversification is being undertaken and will be recorded in the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

A more permissive



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Upper Roach Valley and Wallasea Island URV1 – UpperRoach Valley

ion

only use compulsory purchase powers as a last resort where all other alternatives have been exhausted.

Valley for informal recreational opportunities is undeliverable.

Pressure on the District to accommodate additional development results in difficulty in protecting the Upper Roach Valley from development.

sely

strict is ommodate, the

e

hard The Council will expand Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park through the use of Council owned land and the acquisitof land where necessary. The Council will

The extension of Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park to provide a vast ‘green lung’ linking other parts of the Upper Roach

The Council will work clowith landowners to secure the future of Cherry Orchard Jubilee Country Park, and will use compulsory purchase as alast resort.

The Local Development Framework will set out a robuststrategy for the delivery of all development required, based on sound evidence. By allocating land for the development the Direquired to accCouncil will be able to ensurthat land allocated in the LocalDevelopment Framework as Green Belt remains protected from inappropriate development.

The expansion of Cherry OrcJubilee Country Park will be monitored as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

URV2 – Wallasea Island

The Council will work with the RSPB to deliver the WallaseIsland Wild Coast Project.

Other stakeho

a

lders will also be engaged, including Essex County Council with regards to the sites accessibility, and the Environment Agency, given the physical constraints in the locality.

improvements are not forthcoming.

Development cannot take place due to harm to sites of ecological importance, including those with statutory protection.

ssible.

All plans are subject to Environmental Impact Assessment and/or Appropriate Assessment under Habitats Directive, as appropriate.

art g Report

The Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project is not implemented/access

The Council will work with the RSPB and other key stakeholders to ensure the Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project is delivered and the site is acce

The progress on delivery of the Wallasea Island Wild Coast Project will be monitored as pof the Annual Monitorinor other reporting mechanism, asappropriate.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Environmental Issues ENV1 – Protection and Enhancement of the Natural Landscape and Habitats and the Protection of Historical and Archaeological Sites The enhancement of existing

sites owned by the Council will be achieved by the positive management of them. In the case of other sites, the Council will encourage owners to do likewise. The Crouch and Roach Estuary Management Plan will be delivered in partnership with stakeholders.

ot

ment Plan

are

t process.

e r the

Public Service Agreement target is being met. Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.

The Council will prevent development that would be of harm to areas of international, national and local nature conservation importance and sites of historical and archaeological interest through the development management process.

The District’s SSSIs are nbeing protected, and the Crouch and Roach Estuaries, in particular, continue to deteriorate in quality.

The Crouch and Roach Estuary Manageis not delivered.

Sites of historical and archaeological interest not being protected.

Sites of international, nationaland local nature conservation importance and sites of historical and archaeological interest will be protected through the development managemen

As part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate, the condition of the District’s SSSIs will be recorded, enabling thCouncil to review whethe

ENV2 – CoaProtection Belt

stal l elt, in nces,

ay open and

the ar

ll f the

will include reports on development within the Coastal Protection Belt in the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

The Coastal Protection Belt wilbe protected from harmful development through the development management process.

Development within the Coastal Protection Bexceptional circumstais unavoidable which mimpact on therural character of the undeveloped coast.

The Council will direct development away from Coastal Protection Belt, as fas practicable, through the development management process.

The success of this approach wibe measured by the quality olandscape in the Coastal Protection Belt, as well as its biodiversity.

The Council



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Environmental Issues

In exceptional circumstances, development is located within areas most at riskflooding.

of

ired to priate

es.

This will be regulated through the development management process.

Proposals must pass the sequential test and the exceptions test, where necessary.

Development will be reqube accompanied by approflood mitigation measur

ENV3 – Risk

Flood The Environment Agencystatutory consultee on all planning applications where potential flood risk or water quality issues may arise. The Council will work with the Environment Agency to ensure that flood risk is reduced.

is a

chances of flooding within the District, particularly in the east.

The Council will work with the Environment Agency to monitor flood risk throughout the District and will seek to ensure the most vulnerable areas at risk of flooding are defended, as appropriate. The Environment Agency updates the Council on areas at risk of flooding on a regular basis.

y. The Annual

Climate change and sea level rise increase the

As part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate, the Council monitor the number and proportion of planning applications that have been allowed contrary to Environment Agency advice on flood risk or water qualitMonitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate, will also detail total

rea at risk of flooding. a

ENV4 – Sustainable Drainage Systems (SUDS)

tems o

lopments. This will be guided by the Council’s development management.

. ances to

es

ble drainage

The Council will work with developers to ensure Sustainable Drainage Sys(SUDS) are incorporated intnew deve

The SUDS requirement renders a scheme unviable

The policy makes allowensure that this approach donot undermine the deliverabilityof schemes.

The Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate, will record the proportion of applications in which sustainasystems are incorporated.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Environmental Issues ENV5 – Air Quality

Air Quality Management Areas(AQMAs) will be designated where necessary. Developmwithin AQMAs will be restrictthrough the development management process. AQMA status will be removed once the air quality is deemed acceptable.

ent ed

n the District gatively

of y at d

and the designation is

Air quality withideteriorates, neimpacting on the quality life of residents.

Air quality throughout the District is monitored on a regular basis, particularlcongestion hotspots anvulnerable highway intersections.

AQMAs will be designated, as appropriate, and development will be restricted within these areas, until the air quality improves lifted.

Air quality will be monitored by the Council, as required by the 1995 Environment Act, on a periodic basis. Air quality and development within AQMAs will be recorded. Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.

ENV6 – Large Scale Renewable Energy Projects

The development of large-scale renewable energy projects will be guided by the Council’s development management.

s e-scale enewable energy projects will be onitored as part of the Annual

Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

Detrimental impact on siteof nature conservation importance, and/or landscape character.

The policy does not permit such development which would have a detrimental impact. This will be regulated through the development management process.

The development of largrm



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Environmental Issues ENV7 – SmScale Renewable

all

Energy Projects

renewable energy.

sitive ment

e

Some small-scale renewable projects such as domestic photovoltaic cells do not require consent from the Council. However, those that do require approval will be guided by the Council’s development management.

Development management restricts small-scale renewable energy projects,to the detriment of the generation of

The Council will take a poapproach to such developthrough the development management process.

The Council will monitor the implementation of small-scale renewable energy projects in thAnnual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

ENV8 – On-Site Renewable and Low Carbon Energy Generation

ergy

developments will be required to be provided from on-site renewable or low carbon energy

ensure that this approach does not undermine the deliverability of schemes.

The requirement for new residential development and non-residential development, as appropriate, to provide a

n-site

energy sources render development schemes unviable.

viability of a scheme, the

on

If it is consistently shown that the requirement makes schemes undeliverable then the Council may review the situation through the Local Development Framework process.

nts ts being

provided from on-site renewable or low carbon energy sources as

A proportion of the enrequirements for new

sources and will be regulated through the development management process.

The policy makes allowances to

proportion of the developments energy requirements from orenewable or low carbon

A flexible approach will be maintained to ensure that where it can be shown that the requirement threatens the

Council will require a smaller proportion of the developments energy requirements from on-site renewable or low carbenergy sources.

The Council will monitor the proportion of new developme

nergy requiremene

part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Environmental Issues ENV9 – Code Sustainable Homes

for and

ess.

t. requirements irrespective of local policies. With regards to the aim for development to

ds the

This will be delivered in partnership with developers regulated through the development management process. The minimum requirements of building regulations will be enforced by the building control proc

The Code level requirementfor a residential development makes development schemes unviable, resulting in a shortfall of housing developmen

The Code level requirements are being introduced at a national level and as such the building industry will be required to adapt to such

incorporate higher standarthan the minimum required,Council will maintain a flexible approach to ensure that the schemes are not rendered undeliverable. In determiningspecific sites for development through the Allocations Development Plan Document, the Council will have regard tothe potential for higher standards to be achieved.

The Council will monitor the proportion of dwellings meetingthe Code for Sustainable Homes standard as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as

ppropriate. a

ENV10 – BREEAM

elivered in partnership with developers and regulated through the development management process and building regulations.

ment to meet BREEAM standards undermines the viability of schemes, threatening the delivery of commercial development.

The Council will monitor the proportion of non-residential development meeting the BREEAM standard as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

This will be d The require The Council will maintain a flexible approach to ensure that commercial needs are balanced with the BREEAMstandards requirement.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Environmental Issues ENV11 – Contaminated Land

Development on contamand suspected contaminated land will be guided by the Council’s development management.

inated

makes .

d The remediation of

contaminated land to make a site ‘fit-for purpose’ a scheme undeliverable

The Council will work with developers and landowners toensure that sites allocated for development are viable.

Development on contaminateland, together with measures to mitigate decontamination, will be recorded in the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism CLT1 – PObligations andStandard Charges

lanning

e

t t process.

and

standard charge yield insufficient funds to delivery necessary infrastructure.

holder input. This will consider the size and impact of developments, and the impact on economic viability.

The Council may also review the requirement for Standard Charges through the Local Development Framework process.

Planning obligations and standard charges will be imposed on developers, whernecessary, and regulated through the developmenmanagemen

Planning obligationsstandard charges render development undeliverable.

Planning obligations and

The policy explains that theCouncil will produce a PlanningObligations and Standard Charges document, which will be developed with stake

The Council will monitor the provision of contributions and, together with service providers, the infrastructure that is being delivered.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism CLT2 – Primary Education, Early Years and Childcare Facilities

ion

d by the

management.

Planning obligations and standard charges will be used to aid the delivery of the requisite educational provision.

y th

ll

work with Essex Country

will seek planning obligations and standard charges from developers to aid the implementation of required educational facilities.

sex

.

nty Council monitors the present and future provision of school places within the County within The Essex School Organisation Plan which has been updated on an annual basis since 2003.

The supply and demand for early year is monitored by Essex County Council.

Increased primary schoolyears and childcare proviswill be delivered, where necessary, in partnership with Essex Country Council andevelopers, and guided Council’s development

, early Facilities cannot be delivered by Essex CountCouncil on land allocated for additional primary schools with early years and childcare facilities.

The Council has engaged wiEssex County Council throughout the Core Strategy production process to ensure emerging policies are deliverable. Land will be allocated through the Allocations Development PlanDocument and the Council wi

Council and developers, as necessary, to ensure the delivery of facilities in the identified locations.

The Council

The Council will work with EsCountry Council to monitor the balance between the supply anddemand of schools in the District

Essex Cou



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism CLT3 – Secondary Education

Additional land for the expansioof school sites (for example the King Edmund School) may be identified within the AllocationsDevelopment Plan Document.

Secondary school expansion wibe delivered in partnersEssex Country

n

ll hip with

Council and y the

d standard charges will be used to deliver the requisite educational provision.

sion e

secondary schools as required, is not achieved due to constraints.

l and the

anning d

s of

developers, and guided bCouncil’s development management.

Planning obligations an

Facilities cannot be delivered by Essex County Council on land allocated.

The anticipated expanof Fitzwimarc and SweynPark schools, and other

Land will be allocated through the Allocations Development Plan Document for the expansion of King Edmund School.

The Council will work withEssex Country Counciindividual schools themselves, as necessary, to ensure the delivery and expansion of facilities in the identified locations.

The Council will seek plobligations and standarcharges from developers to aid the increase in capacitieFitzwimarc and Sweyne Park schools, and other secondary schools as required.

The Council will work with Essex Country Council to monitor the balance between the supply and demand of schools in the District.

Essex County Council monitors the present and future provision of school places within the County within The Essex School Organisation Plan which has been updated on an annual basis since 2003.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism CLT4 – Healthcare

Developers will be required to work with the Council, the Primary Care Trust, or other relevant organisation, and otherstakeholders to address any deficiencies identified by the

nd developers,

will use contributions from developers, through standard charges to provide healthcare facilities where necessary.

ents

d

acilities.

the

t, as appropriate.

Health Impact Assessment.

New healthcare facilities will be delivered in partnership with theSouth East Essex Primary CareTrust, or other relevant organisation, aand their implementation guided by the Council’s development management.

The Council

Healthcare improvemdo not meet the needs of residents or are not delivered.

The Council will work with the Primary Care Trust, or other relevant organisation, to identify appropriate locations and aithe delivery of additional healthcare f

The Council will require Health Impact Assessments to ensure that developments over 50 dwellings meet additional healthcare needs prior toimplementation of developmen

The Council will support improvements to existing healthcare facilities.

The provision of adequate healthcare facilities will be reported by the Council using data from the Primary Care Trust, or other relevant organisation.

CLT5 – Open Space

The provision of new open space and the protection of existing open space will be regulated through the development management process.

The provision of new open space and/or the protection of existing open space is not achieved due to pressures to accommodate other forms of development.

New open space will be required as part of proposals for new developments, and the Council will seek standard charges as necessary.

Existing open space will be protected through the development management process.

The provision of open space will be monitored by the Council.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism CLT6 – Community Facilities

Additional community facilities will be delivered by working in partnership with service providers, including the voluntary sector, and developers.

Planning obligations and standard charges will be used tofinance the implementation of community facilities.

e

s not achieved due to pressures to accommodate other forms of development.

e

nning rovision

will

sing The provision of new community facilities and thprotection of existing community facilities i

New community facilities will brequired as part of proposals for new developments, where a need has been identified.

The Council will seek plaobligations for their palongside new development as necessary.

Existing community facilitiesbe protected through the development management process.

The needs for community facilities will be monitored uthe ‘barriers to housing and service domain’ as an indicator from the Indices of Multiple Deprivation (IMD).

CLT7 – Play Space

junction with the sidential

The provision of new, additional play space as required and the protection of existing play space is not achieved due to pressures to accommodate other forms of development

d ew

ed

The Council will seek standard charges for their provision alongside new development as necessary.

The implementation of play space will be monitored and recorded as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

The Council will deliver additional play space where required, in condevelopers of new resites. The Council will use planning contributions from developers to implement playspace where necessary.

The protection of existing facilities will be regulated through the development management process.

New play space will be requireas part of proposals for ndevelopments, where a nehas been identified.

Existing play space will be protected through the development management process.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism CLT8 – Facilities

Youth

with other ding within the

elopers

from developers to implement youth facilities where necessary.

ies,

appropriate to the target age group, and are not flexible to meet changing needs.

and schools

e that te

in meeting the needs of specific

unt

ities, and

lities, The Council will engage with young people through existing community groups and schoolsto ascertain their needs.

The Council will work partners, incluvoluntary sector, and devto ensure the delivery of appropriate facilities. The Council will use planning contributions

Additional youth facilitwhere a need has been identified, are not delivered due to pressures to accommodate other forms of development

Youth facilities are not

The Council will seek standard charges to aid the provision of additional youth facilities alongside new development, where a need has been identified, as necessary.

The Council will engage with young people through existing community groups to ascertain their needs. These findings will seek to ensuryouth facilities are appropria

age groups. Developers will be required to take into accothe views of young people in designing youth facilthis will be regulated through the development management process.

The provision of youth facitogether with a measure to ensure their long-term viability, will be recorded by the Council.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism CLT9 – LeisurFacilities

e e h

ured in

t

within The proportion (m²) of both completed and outstanding leisure development within the District is recorded within the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

The Council have adopted th‘Play Strategy 2007-2012’ whicwill focus the resources available, and in turn, create a successful play offer captthe acronym VITAL – Value based, In the right place, Top quality, Appropriate and Long term.

The Council will use contributions from developers, through standard charges to provide leisure facilities where necessary.

Leisure facilities throughouthe District, in particular Rayleigh Leisure Centre arenot maintained and enhanced.

The Council will work with its partners to ensure that leisure facilities are maintained and enhanced, and will seek contributions, as appropriate, to enhance the leisure offerthe District.

Schools will also be encouraged to make their leisure facilities available for public use.

The provision of leisure facilities may be monitored using the Sport England Sports Facility Calculator.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Community Infrastructure, Leisure and Tourism CLT10 – PlayingPitches

ng at

Sport England is a statutory consultee on all planning applications which have an impact on playing pitch provision (i.e. development of playing fields) and, as such, advise the Council on relevant issues.

e

s

the advice of Sport England.

ing by

The Playing Pitch Strategy Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) is currently being updated, using the guidance created by Sport England. The purpose of the SPD is to assess current playipitch supply and demand so than adequate supply can be maintained.

The provision of playing pitcheswithin the Green Belt will be guided by the Council’s development management.

Insufficient provision of playing pitches to meet demand within the District.

The Council supports the provision of playing pitches within accessible Green Belt locations, having regard to thadvice of Sport England and the impact on the openness and character of the Green Belt.

The loss of existing playingpitches will also be resisted, aappropriate, having regard to

The Council’s evidence base work on the Playing Pitch Strategy will be updated on a regular basis.

Planning applications regardplaying fields are monitored Sport England. The Council willreport on these as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

CLT11 – Tourism

Appropriate tourism opportunities will guided by the Council’s development management.

Green tourism opportunities within the District are not realised.

The Council supports the development of appropriate green tourism opportunities which will be regulated through the development management process.

The number of visitors is monitored as part of the “Economic impact of tourism” report by the East of England Tourist Board. The Council will report on relevant District matters as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Transport T1 – Highways

The Council will work with tHighways Authority to improsustainable alternatives to thecar, and improve network connections across the Dist

he ve

rict.

Improved east to west connections across the District are not delivered.

the ve

t, where appropriate, to

tact

ng

Sustainable alternative transport methods to theprivate car are not encouraged.

The Council will work withHighways Authority to improsustainable alternatives to thecar, and improve network connections across the District.

Developer contributions and standard charges will be soughaid delivery.

Annual Progress Reports/Delivery Report – gives km of cycleways delivered, footpaths enhanced etc. The Council may need to conEssex County Council for Districtdata. Data will be monitored accordithe national Single Data List where necessary.

T2 – Highways Improvements

cross

Highway improvements identified in the policy, and other identified improvements throughout the plan period, are not delivered by the Highways Authority.

highway improvements across the District as indentified in the policy, and other identified improvements which may arise, through monitoring the District’s highway needs throughout the plan period.

will continue to work with Essex County Council to resolve any highways issues which arise across the District. Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.

The Council will work with the Highways Authority to deliverhighway improvements athe District.

The Council will work with the Highways Authority to deliver

The Council



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Transport T3 – Public

ransport TThe Council will work with developers and service providers to ensure public transport provision is in place.

The Council will ensure development is well located in relation to public transport provision through the Local Development Framework and guided by the Council’s development management.

rs nd

limited availability of land. ough

the Allocations Development

ransport infrastructure as appropriate.

Development will be located in a manner that encourages the use of public transport, making provision more commercially viable.

new

ted rt

Public transport operatodo not deliver additional aimproved services due to perceived lack of commercial viability.

New development is notwell located to public transport networks due to

The Council will work with developers, public transport operators and Essex County Council to seek improvements to the public transport infrastructure, where necessary.

The location of new development will be strategically allocated th

Plan Document, having regardto access to public transport. However, where new development has inadequate access to the public transport network, particularly to the east of the District, the Council will seek contributions towards sustainable t

The proportion of development within 30 minutes public transport time of various facilities is recorded and reporin the Annual Monitoring Repoor other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.

Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Transport T4 – South Essex RapidTransit (SERT)

ly cil to

and SERT will

monitored according the national Single Data List

The Council will work closewith Essex County Counensure the smooth implementation of South EssexRapid Transit (SERT).

SERT is not delivered by Essex County Council and partners.

The Council will work with, assist as appropriate, Essex County Council to ensure the implementation of SERT.

The implementation of be monitored by Essex County Council, and Thames Gateway South Essex Partnership (Rochford District Council is one of the partners). Data will be

where necessary. T5 – Travel Plans

h

plans are implemented where required. This will be guided by the Council’s development management.

Travel plans are not implemented.

nt

applications

ccompanied by travel plans as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate. Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.

The Council will work witdevelopers to ensure travel

The requirement for particular developments to create and implement travel plans will be regulated through the development managemeprocess.

The Council will report on thenumber of planninga

T6 – Cycling and Walking

The Council will work with developers, Essex County Council and Sustrans to ensure, through the use of contributions and the designing of facilities at the planning stage, cycling and walking provision is delivered.

Cycling and walking provision across the District is not delivered.

h

tions may be sought, as appropriate.

In conjunction with Essex County Council, the Council will monitor the provision of cycling and walking infrastructure. Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.

The Council will work witdevelopers, Essex County Council and Sustrans to ensurethe delivery of cycling and walking provision. Such facilities will be required to be designed into developments, and contribu



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Transport T7 – Greenways ed

s g

Greenways will be implementby the Council in conjunction with landowners and Essex County Council.

Greenways are not delivered.

The Council will work with partners to aid the delivery of several Greenways within the District identified in the ThameGateway Green Grid Strategy.

The delivery of Greenways identified in the Core Strategy will be recorded by the Council and reported in the Annual MonitorinReport or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate. Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.

T8 – ParkingStandards

king

ing tial

t (minimum standards) are not adhered to, resulting in adverse impacts on highway safety and efficiency.

The appropriate parking standards for trip destinations (maximum

car parking and discouraging alternatives to travel by private car.

ion The Council will ensure theprovision of the requisite parprovision through developmentmanagement.

The appropriate parkstandards for residendevelopmen

standards) are not adhered to, resulting in an excessive uptake of land for

The Council will regulate the provision of the requisite parking provision through the development management process.

The Council monitor the provisof car parking on completed developments within the District as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Economic Development ED1 – Employment Growth ce

t Strategy which, in conjunction with land use policies, will ensure economic development in appropriate locations.

ic alue

cement meets local employment opportunities is not achieved.

employment opportunities.

The Council supports the development of numerous projects which seek to achieve

ment

s al centres, the

development of a skills training academy; and the enhancement of London Southend Airport.

strict

nutes ed

as part of the Annual Monitoring

ual

reporting mechanism, as appropriate. Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.

The Council will work with landowners and business representatives and will produan updated Economic Developmen

Sustainable economgrowth where high vskills enhan

The Council support the delivery of priorities in the Economic Development Strategy which is updated regularly to reflect the local economic climate and local

sustainable economic growth and increase local employopportunities such as the enhancement of the District’commerci

Employment levels in the Diwill be used as an indication of success.

The proportion of employment development within 30 mipublic transport time is record

Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate. The Council will also monitor the total amount of additional employment floorspace by type and employment land available by type as part of the AnnMonitoring Report or other



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Economic Development ED2 – Southend Air

London port

Joint ction

r d

s will be engaged with as part of the Joint Area Action Plan.

ly sely

ction

The Council will produce a Area Action Plan in conjunwith Southend Borough Council that will set out how the Council will ensure that London Southend Airport’s economic potential is realised in a mannethat balances environmental ansocial considerations. Stakeholder

Failure to work effectivewith key partners and stakeholders to realise the airport and surrounding area’s potential.

The Council will work clowith key partners and stakeholders to ensure thedelivery of the Joint Area APlan for London Southend Airport and environs.

Employment uses developed in and around London Southend Airport will be recorded by the Council.

ED3 – Existing Employment Land

Existing employment allocations will be protected from inappropriate development which would undermine their function in providing job opportunities through the management of development.

Loss of existing employment land to alternative uses not protected.

The reallocation of “bad neighbour” industrial estates for alternative residential uses is not delivered due to difficulties in land assembly, reluctance for owners to relocate business, and/or lack of available alternative locations for businesses.

able e

allocated for alternative residential uses through the Allocations Development Plan Document. The Council will work with landowners, developers, business representatives and other stakeholders to ensure this is delivered.

t of

will also monitor employment land available by

m, as appropriate.

Existing employment land which is well used, sustainand strategically located will bprotected through the development management process.

Identified “bad neighbour” industrial estates will be

The use and developmenemployment land is monitored aspart of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate. The Council

type as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanis



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Economic Development The number of businesses

within the Eco-Enterprise Centre, and the proportion othese sustained within the District once they have left the Centre, will be used to its success.

f

measure

ED4 – Future Employment Allocations

rk

of

Appropriate alternative employment land to create additional employment opportunities and relocate displaced businesses from

industrial ed.

Centre ble.

Alternative employment land will be allocated through the Allocations Development Plan Document. The Council will work with landowners,

rried

The development of future allocations with appropriate employment-generating uses will be monitored by the Council as part of the Annual Monitoring

he number of businesses within d ed

have to

The Council will allocate future employment land through the Allocations Development Plan Document. The Council will wowith landowners, developers, business representatives and other stakeholders (including infrastructure providers) to ensure the successful deliveryemployment development.

“bad neighbour” estates is not deliver

The Eco-Enterprise is not feasi

developers, business representatives and other stakeholders to ensure this is delivered and that displaced businesses are suitably relocated.

A feasibility study will be caout for the Eco-Enterprise Centre.

Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate. Employment levels within the District will be used to indicatesuccess.

Tthe Eco-Enterprise Centre, anthe proportion of these sustainwithin the District once theyleft the Centre, will be usedmeasure its success.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Economic Development A site within the new business

park to the north of London Southend Airport will be allocated for the Eco-Enterprise Centre. The Council will secure public funding which in turn will be used to lever private sector

he Council will also monitor the total amount of additional employment floorspace by type and employment land available by type as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as

investment. In terms of delivering services on an ongoing basis, the Council will work in partnership with other key stakeholders and partners whose remit is to support and develop businesses in the District.

T

appropriate. Data will be monitored according the national Single Data List where necessary.



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Retail and Town Centres RTC1 – Retail in town centres

ns

egeneration of the District’s town centres is not delivered and an enhanced market share of retail spending is not achieved.

he Council will prepare and implement Area Action Plans for the town centres seeking to improve their vitality, vibrancy, and spending retention through site specific regeneration plans.

Retail development will also be controlled, directing it towards the town centres, as appropriate, through the development management process.

gh new

ocated res.

Development will be directed towards the District’s town centres through the allocatioprocess and by making the towncentres more attractive to shoppers (see other Retail and Town Centres policies).

R T The retail use of the town centresis included as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate. Success of the policy will be indicated by a hiproportion of retail uses andretail development being ln town centi

RTC2 – Sequential approach to retail development

of retail development is located in town centres. This will be guided by the Council’s development management.

Small-scale retail development in out-of-town centres will be delivered in partnership with developers as part of the allocations process.

Commercial pressure for additional retail development outside of town centres harms the vibrancy and vitality of the District’s centres.

A sequential approach ensures that retail development is located in the most appropriate, sustainable and accessible locations.

It will ensure that such development is directed towards town centre locations, whilst balancing the need to meet the needs of local residents. As such, this approach also recognises that local commercial centres play an important role in meeting the day-to-day needs of the local population. Thus small-scale retail development is supported, as appropriate.

The retail use of the town centres is included as part of the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate. Success of the policy will be indicated by a high proportion of retail uses and new retail development being located in town centres.

A sequential approach will be applied to ensure that the majority



Policy Implementation and Delivery Potential Risk Risk Mitigation Monitoring Retail and Town Centres

Pressure to accommalternative development results in the loss of retail uses within villages, to the detriment of village communities and making

odate

facilities harder to access, particularly for those without use of a car.

be

Additional small-scale retail uses within residential areas outside of the defined town centres will be encouraged, as appropriate, through the Council’s development management.

Existing retail uses within residential areas outside of the defined town centres will protected through the development management process.

RTC3 – Village and Neighbourhood Shops

communities continue to thrive – this will be achieved through a variety of actions, including ensuring there is adequate housing and service provision to

t in he

d

gagement with

in

The loss of village and neighbourhood shops will be resisted through the Council’s development management. The Council will help maintain the viability of village and neighbourhood shops by ensuring that village

support smaller settlements. Residential developmendoes not take place withvillage areas, reducing tcommercial viability of ruralfacilities.

Locations have been identified following consultation with developers, land owners anagents. Endevelopers to ascertaindeliverability of sites withlocations has taken place and will continue throughout plan period.

Annual surveys of the retail units within villages will be undertaken and reported in the Annual Monitoring Report or other reporting mechanism, as appropriate.




The Area Action Plan for Rayleigh is not delivered. The regeneration of the town centre, providing a safe, accessible environment with a range retail uses, evening leisure activities and community facilities, is not achieved.

of

ll work with s to

The Area Action Plan for Rayleigh will be produced in consultation with the local community to ensure that it reflects local views and opportunities.

The Council wilandowners and its partnerdeliver the Area Action Plan.

RTC4 – RayleigTown Centre

h r

he

l

Centres outside of the District draw retail expenditure away from Rayleigh and undermine

se

and visitors, enabling

es will

Revised retail and leisure studies will be carried out. Improvements in the town centre’s health assessment will be seen as an indicator of success.

Other indicators of the performance of the Town Centre Area Action Plan will include levels of anti-social behaviour reported in the area.

The Area Action Plan foRayleigh town centre will be produced by the Council with tinput of specialist consultants, using masterplanning work already undertaken, and taking on board the views of locastakeholders.

The Area Action Plan will be implemented in partnership withlocal developers and landowners.

regeneration potential of centre.

The Area Action Plan will identify actions to increaRayleigh’s attractiveness to shoppersit to compete with other centres.

Surveys of retail areas are carried out on an annual basis. A drop in the number of vacant units and a rise in the total number of shops and facilitiindicate success.




The Area Action Plan for Rochford is not delivered. The regeneration of the town centre, providing a safe, accessible environment with a range of retail uses, evening leisure activities and an attractive market square, is not achieved.

RTC5 – Rochford Town Centre

The Area Action Plan for Rochford town centre will be produced by the Council with the input of specialist consultants, using masterplanning work already undertaken, and taking on board the views of local stakeholders.

The Area Action Plan will be implemented in partnership with local developers and landowners.

Centres outside of the District draw retail expenditure away from Rochford and undermine regeneration potential of centre.

The Area Action Plan for Rochford will be produced in consultation with the local community to ensure that it reflects local views and opportunities.


The Area Action Plan will identify actions to increase Rochford’s attractiveness to shoppers and visitors, centred upon its character and heritage, enabling it to compete with other centres.

Surveys of retail areas are carried out on an annual basis. A drop in the number of vacant units and a rise in the total number of shops and facilities will indicate success.






The Area Action Plan for Hockley is not delivered. The regeneration of the town centre, providing a safe, accessible environment with a range of retail uses, evening leisure activities and community facilities, is not achieved.

The Area Action Plan for Hockley will be produced in consultation with the local community to ensure that it reflects local views and opportunities.


RTC6 – Town Centre

Hockley

m

The Area Action Plan for Hockley town centre will be produced by the Council with the input of specialist consultants, using masterplanning work already undertaken, and taking on board the views of local stakeholders.

The Area Action Plan will be implemented in partnership with local developers and landowners.

Centres outside of the District draw retail expenditure away froHockley and undermine regeneration potential of centre.

The Area Action Plan will identify actions to increase Hockley’s attractiveness to shoppers and visitors, centred upon its quality of environment, enabling it to compete with other centres.

Surveys of retail areas are carried out on an annual basis. A drop in the number of vacant units and a rise in the total number of shops and facilities will indicate success.





Key Diagram



Appendix 1 – Replacement Local Plan policies to be superseded by Core Strategy

On 5 June 2009 the Secretary of State wrote to Rochford District Council and issued direction under paragraph 1(3) of Schedule 8 to the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, saving a number of policies in the Replacement Local Plan (2006) which would otherwise have expired. A list of the policies saved can be viewed at www.rochford.gov.uk/pdf/planning_schedule_of_saved_policies.pdf or at Rochford Council Offices.

The Core Strategy contains policies that supersede a number of the saved policies within the Replacement Local Plan (2006). Such policies are listed in the table below.

Replacement Local Plan (2006) Policy to be Superseded

Replacement Policy in Core Strategy

HP1 – Overall housing provision H1; H2; H3

HP2 – Housing site allocations H2; H3

HP5 – Infrastructure H1; H2; H3; Appendix H1; CLT1; CLT2; CLT3; CLT4; CLT5; CLT6; CLT7; T1; T2; T3; T5; T6

HP7 – Energy and water conservation ENV9; ENV10

HP8 – Affordable housing H4

HP9 – Rural exceptions H4

HP13 -Mobility housing H6

HP14 – Backland development H1; H5

EB1 – Existing sites and the allocation ED3; ED4 of new sites

TP3 Traffic calming T1

TP5 – Public transport T3

TP8 – Car parking standards T8

TP9 – London Southend Airport ED2

LT1 – Rural issues GB2

LT2 – Public playing pitch provision CLT10

LT4 – Public open space CLT5

LT5 – New public open space CLT5

LT6 – Private open space CLT5

LT7 – Safeguarding open space CLT5



Replacement Local Plan (2006) Policy to be Superseded

Replacement Policy in Core Strategy

LT9 – Children's Play Spaces CLT7; CLT8

LT10 – New Play Space Provision CLT7; CLT8

LT17 – Tourism CLT11

LT18 – Rural Tourism CLT11

LT19 – New Hotel Accommodation CLT11;GB2

BC1 – Conservation areas CP2

NR1 UR – Special Landscape Areas V1; ENV2

NR2 – H ENV1; CP3 istoric Landscape

NR7 – Local Nature Reserves and NV6 Wildlife sites ENV1; E

NR8 – Other landscape features of importance for nature conservation ENV1; ENV6

SAT1 – New retail commercial and leisure development RTC1; RTC2

SAT2 – District and local shopping centres and shops RTC


1; RTC2

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Rochford District CouncilCouncil Offices South StreetRochford Essex SS4 1BWPhone: 01702 [email protected]: www.rochford.gov.uk

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